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Gas-powered trucks: a good alternative to diesel?

If you're a truck driver, you might be wondering: is it worth replacing my diesel truck with a gas-powered one? Learn more about gas-powered trucks and the available models here.

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Everything about gas-powered trucks: how they work, prices, and more!

Saiba como funcionam os caminhões a gás. Fonte: AdobeStock.
Learn how gas-powered trucks work. Source: AdobeStock.

So, when we talk about gas-powered vehicles, including trucks, the first question that comes to mind is whether there's an economic advantage to this option. Furthermore, there's also a lot of doubt regarding the safety they offer. Let's then learn more about how gas-powered trucks work and find out if they're worthwhile.

First of all, it's important to highlight that these trucks contribute significantly to reducing carbon dioxide (CO²) emissions from diesel vehicles.

Therefore, replacing diesel with gas represents a good solution for the planet's sustainability, a topic that is much discussed today. 

And going back to the topic of economic advantages, what we see is that gas-powered trucks provide savings of up to 20% compared to diesel.

Thus, although prices are still high, the savings are offset in a relatively short period.

This makes it a significant attraction, capable of stimulating the replacement of diesel with gas.

However, one drawback is that the gas distribution system in Brazil is still precarious. Its expansion depends on public and private investments.

However, gas-powered vehicles are already a reality. It's a good alternative for companies and also for those who depend on a truck for work.

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How does a gas-powered truck work?

So, let's learn in more detail how a gas-powered truck works.

Okay, the operation of Otto cycle engines in gas-powered trucks doesn't differ much from diesel combustion engines. They guarantee the same performance and power.

Furthermore, these engines are up to 20% quieter. They have a reduction of up to 90% in gas emissions if biomethane gas is used.

Thus, the natural gas is cooled and cryogenically stored. It can then be used directly as fuel to power large engines.

Special tanks with ample capacity are made from reservoirs for this gas. This keeps its volume in the cylinders stable at ambient temperature. During compression, a spark ignites the gas through electronic injection systems.

In this way, the tires receive sufficient force generated by this system.

For added safety, the cylinders have safety valves to detect any irregularities in the gas operation.

Therefore, to avoid any type of accident, the fuel is released if problems occur with pressure, temperature, or flow rate. 

How many kilometers can a gas-powered truck travel?

Scania offers the option of combining the type of gas, cylinders and tanks, in order to provide autonomy according to the customer's needs.

Therefore, it guarantees a lifespan of up to 1,700 km in the best version.

Foton's model, being a semi-lightweight vehicle for urban use, has a range of up to 280 km.

How much does a gas-powered truck cost?

Então, veja quanto custa um caminhão a gás. Fonte: AdobeStock.
So, check out how much a gas-powered truck costs. Source: AdobeStock.

Well, only two automakers currently have gas-powered truck models with suggested retail prices.

Scania is already selling its R410 6x2 model. The suggested price is R$ 650 thousand and some units have already been sold.

Foton, on the other hand, has its TM 2.8 semi-light gas-powered truck model, with an approximate cost of R$80 thousand.

The market is eagerly awaiting the launch of models from other manufacturers, who are still conducting their tests.

What are the main models of gas-powered trucks in Brazil?

Conheça os principais modelos de caminhões a gás no Brasil. Fonte: AdobeStock.
Discover the main gas-powered truck models in Brazil. Source: AdobeStock.

Gas-powered truck production in Brazil is still in its infancy. Therefore, there aren't many models available yet.

Therefore, we have listed below a version of the Scania available for sale. We also expect the launch of a Foton model.

Furthermore, we bring information regarding other automakers who are expected to begin testing with their brands soon.

Scania R410 6x2

Featured prominently at Fenatran (International Road Transport and Cargo Show), Scania launched its R410 6x2 gas-powered truck.

His goal is to win over Brazilian transportation companies, with an emphasis on reducing the emission of polluting gases.

The truck is now available for purchase, priced at around R$ 650 thousand. This is 30% more than the equivalent diesel-powered truck.

However, Scania is betting on its success. There is a market niche that values sustainability as a key differentiator in its business.

Foton TM 2.8

Well, Foton's partnership with Coopercarga should launch its TM 2.8 semi-light gas-powered truck model.

To that end, they have already begun testing this model in Brazil. It is designed for use in urban areas and should be sold for approximately R$ 80 thousand.

According to the company, the TM 2.8 will have a range of up to 280 km. It will use only CNG gas and will have a gas conversion kit from Convergas.

IVECO

The automaker IVECO began producing its gas-powered truck version in February of this year, with a pre-series of 20 units at its factory in Sete Lagoas (MG).

For now, the model's features and its selling price are unknown.

VOLVO

Volvo is testing its FM 460hp gas-powered truck in Brazil, which is being imported from Sweden.

The model assembly is designed for use with the 70% LNG gas cylinder. The remainder will run on diesel, and a suggested retail price has not yet been set.

As we can see, gas-powered trucks are being produced and tested to run on the country's roads with the same performance as diesel vehicles.

Therefore, the fuel savings achieved by these trucks will be of great importance. It will ensure a more sustainable transportation system and greater profitability for companies. So, let's wait for the next releases.

However, if you are looking for a pre-owned or used truck, access the link below. Learn how truck auctions work and see how to win your bid!

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