Penske Associates Receive Training on Natural Gas Tractors

Penske’s 24/7 Roadside Assistance team recently received hands-on training on the company’s compressed natural gas (CNG) Freightliner Cascadia tractors equipped with Cummins Westport 12-liter engines.

The 24/7 team participated in training sessions to become more familiar with the mechanical differences between CNG and diesel tractors. The center ensures all of Penske’s leasing, logistics, rental and contract maintenance customers are assisted with any roadside issues.

“It’s really important for our associates to see and experience the CNG vehicle first-hand to understand the variations,” said Gregg Mangione, Vice President – Maintenance Services, PTL. “The main difference between the two tractors is the fuel delivery system and storage tanks.”

Experts explained the CNG tractor’s features, provided safety tips, reviewed common maintenance issues and discussed natural gas fueling stations.

“The 24/7 Roadside Assistance team is enthusiastic that our company is supporting emerging alternative fuel technologies that are helping our customers incorporate sustainable practices within their truck fleets,” Mangione said.

In summer 2013, approximately 100 natural gas tractors were ordered by Penske Truck Leasing for full-service truck leasing and commercial truck rental customers at various locations across the United States. By year’s end, the company estimates it will have placed orders for an additional 100 natural gas tractors for its fleet.

Penske offers fleet operators considering natural gas trucks: vehicle specification expertise, lease financing, grant application assistance, a nationwide network of maintenance facilities, and more than two decades of experience maintaining fleets of commercial natural gas vehicles. Considering natural gas for your truck fleet? Contact Penske at 1-855-345-7268 to schedule an evaluation.

By Kandace Wertz