France, Paris
UPS has begun trials of its first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicle
in Paris, commencing operations early last month. In a press release
UPS said the vehicle is being trialled for both efficiency and
environmental benefits and that they could have 15 CNG vehicles
operating by the beginning of next year.
The vehicle will provide UPS with a solution that combines
excellence, safety and respect for the environment. "The vehicle was
chosen for this test due to its remarkable environmental performance,
combined with the sought-after operational efficiency to complete our
city-center deliveries, in the conditions that our clients seek,"
declared Alan Williams, District Manager, West Europe, UPS. "It also
offers the advantage of a cost comparable to that of diesel gas," he
added.
The vehicle, designed by UPS and based on a CNG Daily chassis from IVECO
with a 3.5 ton capacity, could therefore provide a pertinent solution
to city-center delivery needs, while contributing to better air quality
and reducing noise. If the test is successful, UPS will put 15 vehicles
of this kind into circulation by the beginning of next year.
Natural gas is a ‘clean’ gas: it emits almost no dust, soot, or smoke.
Its combustion produces practically just steam and carbonic gas. "As
far as road transportation goes, Compressed Natural Gas is the only
true alternative today whose efficiency and reliability have been
proven. It’s the only solution capable of giving excellent results,
both in terms of gas emissions and noise reduction," declared Manuel
Lage, Director of the Natural Gas Business Development & Product
Unit at IVECO.
UPS is putting the vehicle into service amidst sustained growth for the
business in France, notably with the ongoing recruitment of 100
delivery drivers.
UPS operates one of the world’s largest fleets of alternative fuel
vehicles, which includes over 1,800 compressed natural gas, liquefied
gas, propane and hybrid electric vehicles.
UPS is the world’s largest package delivery company and a global leader
in supply chain services, offering an extensive range of options for
synchronizing the movement of goods, information and funds.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., UPS serves more than 200 countries and
territories worldwide.
Current news items can be found on the NGV Global Home Page. Items from past issues can be found via the Article Index page.
Print 
PDF 