Volvo VNL 300 Now Available with Cummins Natural Gas Option
Volvo Trucks North America announced last month that their new Volvo VNL 300 is now available with Cummins ISX12N “near zero” emissions natural gas engine options, providing an alternative fuel solution for pickup, delivery and regional haul operations.
The Volvo VNL offers unsurpassed driveability, safety, and comfort across a wide range of highway applications, however the 300 is the first VNL model to feature the environmentally-friendly engine. “The low carbon footprint, expanded delivery and distribution, abundant supply and stable pricing of natural gas offer substantial benefits to fleet operators looking to utilize the fuel as a clean, quiet, and cost-effective alternative to diesel, without the need for a DPF or SCR system,” said John Moore, product marketing manager for powertrain at Volvo Trucks North America, in an interview with FleetOwner.
Cummins ISX12N has available engine ratings of 350-400 hp. with 1,450 lbs.-ft. of torque. The natural gas powered engine is approved for gross combination weights of up to 80,000 lbs., allowing its usage for heavy-duty regional hauling and tractor applications as well as port drayage, vocational, refuse, and straight truck applications. It can be operated on compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, or renewable natural gas.
The option of a natural gas engine on the Volvo VNL 300 is not the first case of OEMs looking for alternative energy solutions. Isuzu debuted their all-electric medium-duty box truck at the 2018 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis this March. More and more OEMs are making the move to OBD (On-Board Diagnostic) compliance and U.S. EPA and CARB certification for future industry and economic trends as robust electric technology in vehicles and infrastructure become increasingly cost competitive and accessible.
Nextran Truck Centers is dedicated to changing industry standards and staying up-to-date on new products and options offered by our OEMs. Before you hit the road give us a call to check out or purchase a Volvo VNL 300. We sell and service hundreds of Volvo trucks and other Medium or Heavy Duty trucks including: Volvo, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Ford, and Mack. With 16 locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama, we are nearby when you need us and are happy to assist with any and all service needs you may have.
