NFI, a leading supply chain trucking company, launched a natural gas fleet this week in central Florida. The new fleet consists of 12 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks, which will serve transportation operations for a national home improvement retailer in the region.
The CNG operation in Florida expands NFI’s natural gas footprint to the southeast. Already with natural gas operations in California, Texas, and Pennsylvania, the natural gas fleet in Florida is expected to reduce greenhouse emissions by nearly 20 percent for the regional operation.
New Jersey-based NFI deployed its first natural gas fleet in Los Angeles, Calif. in 2012. Since then, the company has been committed to adding sustainable fleets across the country, studying the positive effects of natural gas, and applying its findings to improve supply chain sustainability.
In partnership with NFI, GAIN Clean Fuel has opened a new CNG station strategically located in Kissimmee, Fla. to support the carrier’s operational needs. CNG improves air quality by emitting less CO2 and costs less than diesel fuel, even with today’s low oil prices.
“We are very excited to be working with GAIN Clean Fuel on this new fueling station to support our natural gas trucks,” says Bill Bliem, senior vice president of fleet services at NFI. “Even with fuel prices dropping, natural gas remains a sustainable, cost effective alternative to diesel. NFI remains committed to lowering its emissions and impact on the environment.”
NFI is an EPA Smartway Transport Partner and continuously explores opportunities to utilize alternative fuels and develop sustainable best practices. Its trucks make use of AirTabs, trailer skirts, and speed limiters to decrease fuel usage, and they have pioneered the use of battery powered auxiliary powered units, or APUs. The Environment Protection Agency has awarded NFI the SmartWay Excellence award three times in recognition of its sustainability efforts.