Mack Trucks has introduced a natural gas-powered version of its versatile TerraPro Cabover model for the refuse and construction applications.
The Mack TerraPro Cabover model is now available with heavy duty natural gas engines supplied by Cummins Westport. The 9-liter Cummins Westport ISL G is rated at 320 hp, can use compressed (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) and has a three-way catalyst to meet EPA 2010 emissions standards.
“With this new natural gas product, an industry-leading truck is now coupled with an alternative fuel option,” said Curtis Dorwart, Mack vocational products marketing manager. “The cabover design combines Mack durability with an interior aimed at driver comfort and productivity.
“Adding the natural-gas powered engine allows our customers to be environmental leaders in their markets and communities.”
Natural gas-powered vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the refuse market. A growing number of municipalities mandate alternative fuel vehicles as a condition of contracts with refuse haulers.
Increasingly, communities are expecting industries to move in the direction of energy independence and use of fuels from renewable sources.
The natural gas TerraPro Cabover also qualifies for tax credits, making it a timely investment, according to Dorwart.
“With the Mack TerraPro model series, we’ve created a family of trucks that meet the application and productivity needs of our customers - and now the demand for cleaner emissions and alternative fuel options as well,” he said. “The natural gas version of our TerraPro Low-Entry model is already being very well-received in the market, and we’re confident our new natural-gas powered TerraPro Cabover model will be as well - both reflect the Mack long-standing commitment to innovation.”
Republic Services, a leading provider of solid waste collection, transfer, recycling and disposal services - and a long-term Mack customer - has recently taken delivery of 41 natural gas TerraPro Cabover models.
“We are always interested in new and innovative technologies to improve our operations, reduce emissions and shrink our carbon footprint,” said Roy Svehla, senior fleet manager for Republic. “With the TerraPro line, Mack has shown its ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of the customer and the demands of the industry.”
Mack has been a leader in natural gas vehicle research over the last two decades.
In the early 1990s, the company participated in a demonstration project in Washington, PA. Mack MR models powered by a natural gas version of the company’s E7 engine were put into service at a local landfill, using an on-site natural gas refueling system. The effort helped establish the viability of natural gas as a fuel option for landfill operations.
Natural gas has a number of significant benefits. It burns very cleanly, there is an abundant supply here in North America, and it’s comparable to diesel in terms of cost over the life of the vehicle.
Dorwart emphasized that the Mack trucks have been specifically engineered and built to operate on natural gas - an important advantage over aftermarket conversions. The ISL G engine is installed on the production line at the Mack Macungie Assembly Operations plant.
“Our customers appreciate that the TerraPro models are factory-built and come with factory support and warranty,” said Dorwart. “It’s all part of the Mack promise of performance and reliability.”
