cc attending Canada's Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) this year got a chance to kick the tires on some natural gas-powered light and heavy trucks.
Canada's largest agricultural trade show featured more than 750 exhibitors and 49,000 visitors Sept. 10-12. Many of them were drawn to the New Fuels/New Trucks Expo, sponsored by Peterbilt. On-hand were natural gas-powered trucks from Peterbilt and Volvo. CNG, LNG, hybrids and electric vehicles were all on display, organizers say.
"Interest is really growing in Compressed Natural Gas," said COFS manager of renewable energy development, Murray Logan. "It's an emerging technology and was a highlight of the New Fuels/New Trucks Expo this year."
Visitors to the show learned that fuel expenses can be reduced by as much as 50% when using natural gas rather than diesel. Organizers said it's a compelling fuel in the agriculture segment, for fleets hauling grains, livestock or milk.
Presenting sponsor Faromor Energy Solutions of Stratford, Ont. has installed CNG fuelling stations in rural Ontario, making the fuel more widely available. Another interesting angle for ag-haulers is that CNG equipment can be adapted to run on biomethane created right on the farm using an anaerobic digester.
"Farmers are always interested in ways to cut their energy costs. Feedback was very positive with quite a number of attendees seeking follow up information," said Logan. "CNG and LNG fueling will gain greater popularity as the infrastructure to support it grows."
On the lighter side, vehicles from Chrysler, GM and Ford were also displayed with dual-fuel capabilities. These vehicles can be run on natural gas when it's available, and diesel or gasoline when it's not.
