Iveco has launched the Stralis NP 460, a gas-powered three-axle truck that gives fleet operators a sustainable alternative to diesel.

The 44-tonne truck is the first three-axle tractor to operate on 100% LNG.

It joins Iveco’s growing gas-powered line-up, which now stretches from 3.5- to 44-tonnes.

Named Low Carbon Truck of the Year at the Commercial Fleet Awards 2017, the existing 4x2 Stralis NP range offers a choice of 400hp and 460hp engines – of which there are 25 already in operation in the UK and more than 1,000 across Europe.

Stuart Webster, Iveco UK & Ireland business director, said: “This is a really exciting launch for Iveco and marks the moment natural gas moves into mainstream UK volume in a big way. What began as a niche fuel now offers fleets the widest range of opportunities for the future and we’re absolutely committed to helping operators begin the technology transfer from diesel to gas.

“Bringing this new vehicle to market is the culmination of our more than 20 years development of natural gas technology – packaged into a 6x2 tractor which can deliver a true competitive advantage for UK fleets on both regional and long-distance missions.”

The Stralis NP 460 6x2 runs exclusively on LNG from tanks mounted either side of the chassis, for a range of approximately 470 miles. Iveco says this makes it perfect for applications where vehicles operate on a ‘same-day out and back’ operation, with gas companies keen to support businesses in establishing on-site refuelling capabilities to complement the UK’s growing network.

“Customers tell us that vehicle range will be key to winning their orders, and we’re confident that our pure LNG solution will deliver the optimum mileage for a 6x2 gas-powered tractor,” added Webster.

Sitting at the heart of the new vehicle is the 12.9 litre IVECO Cursor 13 NP single-fuel engine, mated to Iveco’s 12-speed Hi-Tronix automated transmission.

Natural gas delivers a 99% reduction of particulate matter and 60% reduction of NOx, compared to Euro VI limits.

It also offers fleets the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 95% when running on liquefied bio-methane (LBM).  

The Stralis NP 460 6x2 is available to order from dealers nationwide with immediate effect, with the first demonstrators expected to commence trials with UK fleets during October 2018. 

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