The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Program has recognized Peterbilt’s Model 386 liquefied natural gas (LNG) truck as meeting the established fuel-saving, low-emission equipment requirements set for Class 8 trucks, Peterbilt says. The Model 386 LNG will join Peterbilt’s family of SmartWay designated vehicles which includes the Model 587, Model 386 and Model 384.
“Peterbilt is proud that the Model 386 LNG has been recognized as the industry’s first alternative fueled vehicle to obtain SmartWay designation,” says Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president. “The Model 386 LNG SmartWay designated vehicle offers optimal fuel and emissions efficiency with horsepower and torque equal to a diesel-fueled engine, making it the ultimate environmentally sound performance solution for customers, and further demonstrates Peterbilt as an industry leader in developing innovative quality products.”
Equipped with a fuel efficient, aerodynamic package, Peterbilt says the Model 386 LNG SmartWay designated vehicle is suited for a variety of applications, including line, bulk and tanker hauling.
According to Peterbilt, the contoured aerodynamic package features roof fairings with trim tabs that help propel air up and over the cab and trailer, re-contoured chassis fairings with a “flair” design pushing airflow around the tires and wheels, and an exclusive Peterbilt transition fairing positioned between the cab and detachable sleeper directing airflow over and around the sleeper. In addition, a composite molded sun visor featuring a Gurney strip design is said to transition air more efficiently over the cab while providing glare protection for drivers, and three inch rubber mounts are fastened to the end of the sleeper driving airflow out and around the trailers.
“Peterbilt is always looking to achieve the next level of innovation and operating efficiency,” says Landon Sproull, Peterbilt chief engineer. “Through extensive aerodynamic analysis and testing, Peterbilt engineers combined the industry-leading Model 386 aerodynamic package with the Westport GX engine to provide the most fuel efficient, performance configuration.”
Peterbilt says the alternative fueled vehicle is powered by the EPA-certified Westport GX engine, offering up to 475 hp and 1,750 lbs-ft. of torque. The 15-liter engine uses high pressure direct injection technology (HPDI), specialized cryogenic fuel tanks, and associated electronic components to facilitate robust performance and reliable operation. This technology uses a low cost, cleaner-burning fuel than diesel without compromising engine torque, power, fuel economy or drivability, in addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent.
