Motoring

Cut costs and reduce emissions with Isuzu’s new CNG trucks

High fuel costs are a major pain point for fleet owners, but Isuzu now offers a solution. Read more about it here.

Isuzu now offers a range of commercial vehicles adapted to operate using a dual fuel option.

It’s a proven technology used globally, with over 14 million compressed natural gasses (CNG) vehicles operating in 80 countries.

Isuzu’s CNG-DDF (diesel dual fuel) technology has been thoroughly tested for reliability.

CNG offers significant benefits

  • Reduced emissions: Isuzu CNG trucks emit 20-25% fewer greenhouse gases and virtually no harmful pollutants.
    Lower running costs: CNG is a cleaner-burning fuel, leading to reduced fuel consumption.
    • Improved engine life: Less engine wear due to cleaner combustion.
    • Quieter operation: CNG engines run smoother, resulting in less noise pollution.
    • Faster refuelling: Compared to electric trucks, CNG ones’ refuelling are significantly quicker.

Easy to use

  • Isuzu’s CNG-DDF system seamlessly integrates with the existing diesel engine.
    • Drivers can switch between dual fuel (diesel/gas mix) and 100% diesel mode with the simple press of a button.
    • The system automatically switches to diesel when the CNG tank is empty or detects a fault.

Performance and safety

  • CNG trucks maintain similar torque, power and trip times as their diesel counterparts.
    • CNG is lighter than air and disperses quickly in case of a leak, minimising risks.
    • CNG has a narrow flammability range, making it statistically safer than conventional fuels.

Challenges and considerations

  • Currently, CNG’s availability in South Africa is limited to Gauteng.
    • CNG tanks add weight to the vehicle, slightly reducing payload capacity.
    • CNG conversions are more suited for long-wheelbase models due to space requirements.

Strategic choice

Despite these challenges, CNG offers a strategic fuel option as volatile oil prices and environmental concerns make it a compelling choice for fleet owners. While the initial CNG network is limited, it is expected to expand in the future.

Isuzu’s CNG-DDF technology is available as an option for 20 long-wheelbase models. This allows for strategic fleet planning and a smoother transition to a cleaner future.

Source: QuickPic

 

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