March 10, 2022. A delivery of ten striking new compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered prime movers have gone into operation as part of an AO contract in the United Kingdom. The British electrical goods retailer is looking to reduce its carbon footprint across its commercial vehicle fleet.
It has signed to a five-year, full-service contract hire agreement with fleet management and rental solutions specialist Fraikin, with the new Iveco S-Way NP 4×2 units the first in AO’s 129-strong trunking fleet to operate on natural gas. The vehicles run on compressed biomethane and replace older, diesel-powered trucks.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the new CNG vehicles into our UK trunking fleet and continue our successful partnership with Fraikin,” said David Ashwell, AO Logistics Managing Director. “At AO Logistics, we are always looking at ways to improve our operation in terms of both sustainability and fuel efficiency – trialing these new tractor units is a fantastic step towards reducing our impact on the environment.”
Supplied in AO’s memorable green vinyl livery, the new vehicles will operate with both single and double deck trailers. Carrying large appliances between the company’s depots in Crewe and North London, they are expected to clock up around 125,000 miles (201,100km) per year.
The new IVECO S-WAY NP reportedly boasts some of the most mature gas driveline technology available on the market, enabling operators to dramatically reduce carbon emissions by up to 95 per cent when running on biomethane.
The new truck design features improved aerodynamics to help reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. With large, 1,052-litre fuel tanks, the S-Way NPs will be more than capable of handling their intended operational trunking routes, offering a range of up to 380 miles on a full tank.
If the new trucks prove to be a success, the company will look to replace more diesel-powered assets, with Fraikin once again ready to offer guidance and advice on the best available options.
