Freightliner Trucks announced that DeKalb County, Ga., has ordered 24 Freightliner Business Class M2 112 compressed natural gas trucks for sanitation and maintenance applications. DeKalb County – considered one of the greenest counties in America – will power the new trucks using its methane gas-to-energy process that converts landfill waste to useable natural gas.
By converting the waste to energy, DeKalb County produces enough electricity to run 2,500 homes and will produce enough natural gas to run 600 trucks. To support the gas-to-energy program, DeKalb County also is building two fueling stations – enhancing the natural gas infrastructure for both passenger cars and trucks.
DeKalb County will take delivery of its new M2 112 CNG trucks in late 2011. “We take environmental responsibility very seriously, and we are very proud of all our green initiatives,” says Robert Gordon, fleet service superintendent, DeKalb County fleet management division.
Designed for a broad range of regional haul and vocational applications, the Freightliner M2 112 CNG is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G 8.9 liter NG engine. Featuring a maintenance-free three-way catalyst and no diesel particulate filter or regeneration required, the ISL G also helps lower overall cost of operations.
Gordon says that in addition to the truck’s environmental benefits, the M2 112’s roomy and comfortable cab, with easily accessible controls, is suited for the three-man routes DeKalb County runs. The 2,500 square-inch windshield provides enhanced visibility, while the truck’s 55-degree wheel cut and set-back front axle adds to maneuverability.
