Howard Tenens now at 85% dual-fuel for its tractor fleet 28 March 2014

Howard Tenens move to convert a further 36 of its trucks converted to run on a blend of CNG (compressed natural gas) and diesel means that 85% of its LGV fleet is now dual-fuel.

"The conversions cost £35,000 each but allow us to achieve a 16—20% CO2 emission saving, rising to 60% where we use biomethane," reports Howard Tenens commercial and marketing director Jamie Hartles.

While, in the past, Howard Tenens dual-fuel conversions have been carried out by Hardstaff, the most recent vehicles have been converted by Prins Autogas.

Its system is claimed to replace 45% of the diesel that with gas for a clean, lean burn. And with CNG approximately half the price of diesel per litre equivalent – although energy content is slightly lower – the haulier is saving significant fuel costs.

The gas tanks Prins fits vary in weight from 500kg, if steel tanks are selected, falling to 250—300kg for alloy tanks. Howard Tenens is using the latter for its 6x2 tractor units, since steel tanks are too bulky.

The 65 dual-fuel trucks Howard Tenens runs in total are a mixture of DAFs and Mercedes-Benz and the firm has experienced no warranty issues with either manufacturer.

"We've arranged with the converters to have the fuel system warranted separately and that covers any damage to the vehicle," states Hartles.

Dual-fuel trucks typically remain on the fleet for from three to five years he adds and the conversion system can be removed for re-use on another vehicle prior to disposal.

To refuel its dual-fuel trucks Howard Tenens has set up facilities in Boston, South Ockendon, Swindon and Andover.

Author
Brian Tinham

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