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BOC goes for gas with ERF tractor

3rd December 1992
Page 7
Page 7, 3rd December 1992 — BOC goes for gas with ERF tractor
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• BOC Distribution Services is set to become the first British haulier to run a 38-tonner on compressed natural gas.

The ERF El0 will be fitted with a Cummins L10 engine adapted to operate on CNG. It is due to be delivered to BOC next summer and will probably be based at BOC's depot at Thatcham, Berks for runs of up to 800km (500 miles).

BOC plans to run the vehicle on a six-month trial to test claims that CNG vehicles cost no more to run than conventional diesels, with lower levels of harmful emissions. The Natural Gas Vehicle Association claims that operating vehicles on CNG can reduce diesel fuel bills by 10%.

CNG-powered vehicles are also said to be quieter than diesel units. This can make them attractive for use in environmentally sensitive areas, such as hospitals, says the NGVA's David Armstrong.

He admits there is a weight penalty as CNG tanks are larger and heavier than on diesels and there is a shortage of CNG refuelling stations: British Gas is in the process of setting up 10 nationwide. But Armstrong stresses: "It is technically practical for a haulier to operate CNG vehicles if it is delivering to the same or pre-determined place." He says CNG will most suit hauliers which do not need to operate their vehicles to their full GVW.

BOC will get around the refuelling problem by using its CNG unit on regional work, so it can be re-fuelled at its base where a natural gas compressor will be installed.

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