Gasrec, a major fuel provider for gas-powered commercial vehicles on UK roads is to increase the size of its Bio-LNG (liquified natural gas) tanker fleet by 300 percent over the next 12 months, in order to meet the rapidly growing demand from transport and logistics companies opting for a lower cost and more sustainable alternative to diesel.
Gasrec has recently taken delivery of its third cryogenic trailer from Bradford-based M1 Engineering, and has two more in build for completion in the next few months – with a further three tankers projected to join the fleet in the second half of the year. The tri-axle tanker semi-trailers, which can each carry up to 20 tonnes of Bio-LNG, will be operated by longstanding distribution partner Reynolds Logistics, the award winning Irish transport operator. They will be used to replenish Gasrec refuelling stations across the UK, operating Volvo FM LNG 6×2 tractor units.
Commenting on the investment, James Westcott, Chief Commercial Officer at Gasrec, said: “Bio-LNG is stepping up to become the new fuel driving heavy truck sales within the most sustainable fleets. The product from truck manufacturers is now mature, and in many ways it’s even better to drive than a diesel-engined model, being around 50 per cent quieter.
“Just as we’ve been expanding our team and planning new refuelling sites, this investment will ensure our tankers can keep pace with rising demand for what is currently the only truly sustainable alternative fuel for long-haul trucks.”
Gasrec supplies, builds and operates Bio-LNG and Bio-CNG refuelling stations, enabling fleets to take advantage of a fuel which is significantly cheaper and better for the environment than diesel. In comparison with Euro-6 diesel, a typical 6×2 tractor unit operating on long-haul work and running on Bio-LNG emits around 90 percent less NO2 emissions, 99 percent less particulate matter and 95 percent less CO2.