Mack Introduces Natural
Gas-Powered TerraPro Cabover

Mack Trucks has introduced a natural gas-powered version of its versatile TerraPro Cabover model for the refuse and construction applications. Mack officials made the announcement and displayed the truck at the company’s World Sales Conference, being held at the new Mack Customer Center here last month.

The MACK TerraPro Cabover model is now available with heavy-duty natural gas engines supplied by Cummins Westport. The 9-liter Cummins Westport ISL G is rated at 320 hp, can use compressed (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG), and has a three-way catalyst to meet EPA 2010 emissions standards.

“With this new natural gas product, an industry-leading truck is now coupled with an alternative fuel option,” said Curtis Dorwart, Mack vocational products marketing manager. “The cabover design combines Mack durability with an interior aimed at driver comfort and productivity. Adding the natural-gas powered engine allows our customers to be environmental leaders in their markets and communities.”

Natural gas-powered vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the refuse market. A growing number of municipalities mandate alternative fuel vehicles as a condition of contracts with refuse haulers. Increasingly, communities are expecting industries to move in the direction of energy independence and use of fuels from renewable sources. The natural gas TerraPro Cabover also qualifies for tax credits, making it a timely investment.

Mack has been a leader in natural gas vehicle research over the last two decades. In the early 1990s, the company participated in a demonstration project in Washington, PA. Mack MR models powered by a natural gas version of the company’s E7 engine were put into service at a local landfill, using an on-site natural gas refueling system. The effort helped establish the viability of natural gas as a fuel option for landfill operations.

Natural gas has a number of significant benefits. It burns very cleanly, there is an abundant supply here in North America, and it’s comparable to diesel in terms of cost over the life of the vehicle.