Mainstay Fuel Technologies Inc. and Virginia Transportation Corp. have announced the completion and delivery of 30 custom-designed fuel systems for use in Virginia Transportation’s new fleet of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered car haulers.
Mainstay says the CNG-powered fleet will be utilized as part of a collaboration between Virginia Transportation and American Honda Motor Co. The trucks will be dedicated to routes moving automobiles from Honda’s Lincoln, Ala., factory to a new CSX rail facility.
Mainstay and Virginia Transportation worked closely with The Pete Store, Peterbilt, Cottrell and Fontaine Modification on this project to ensure the fuel system’s integration with the truck’s unique configuration.
Mainstay says it engineered the fuel system utilizing a dual side-mounted alignment with two Type IV cylinders to meet the fleet’s range requirements. Peterbilt lowered the cab and chassis of the 365 Daycab, and Fontaine Modification further reduced the height of the roof and installed Mainstay’s fuel system on the chassis within an envelope required for body installation. Cottrell completed the truck by adding the carrier body to the chassis.
“This challenging, cutting-edge project has been a learning experience for all involved. With total engagement of the finest assembled team of suppliers, engineers, innovators, designers, visionaries and dreamers, we have brought this project to a successful completion. Virginia Transportation is honored to be next to Honda in this clean step leading to the future of auto hauling,” says Leo Dorie, president and CEO of Virginia Transportation.
