PORTLAND, OR - Freightliner Trucks has introduced its first natural gas-powered truck, the Freightliner Business Class M2 112 NG, ideal for port operations, natural gas utilities, and municipalities. An OEM factory-built product, this truck is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G.

"The M2 112 is a versatile and hard-working truck, and adding a natural gas option only enhances its efficiency," said Melissa Clausen, director of product marketing for Freightliner Trucks. "As part of Daimler Truck's Shaping Future Transportation initiative, we will continue to provide reliable trucks with both economic and environmental benefits."

The Cummins Westport ISL G, an 8.9L stoichiometric cooled-exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) engine, offers the lowest emissions available in the industry without sacrificing top-level performance and efficiency. Available in rating up to 320 hp, the ISL G already meets EPA 2010 standards with 85-percent lower NOx emissions than the C Gas Plus engine, and features the highest power-to-weight ratio in class with an optimized turbocharger. The ISL G also features a maintenance-free exhaust system with a three-way catalyst. No further technology or after-treatment will be required to meet 2010 emissions.

"Natural gas technology has come a long way. Buses have been using it for years, but the next generation natural gas powertrains have more power because less air is needed for combustion," said Clausen. "The technology simply burns cleaner."

"By launching the Cummins Westport ISL G in the M2 112 tractor, Freightliner will be able to provide customers with clean, economical gas power for a wide range of applications," said Roe East, president of Cummins Westport. "By the end of 2010, Freightliner will have a complete Cummins Westport-powered line-up with configuration options for more than 90-percent of truck applications in North America."

In 2009, Freightliner Trucks will also offer a CNG version of the M2 112, followed by a CNG single axle tractor, 4x2 and 6x2 truck, and vocational configurations.

Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, headquartered in Portland, Ore.