Westport Innovations Inc. announced that it will expand its product offerings with the introduction of natural gas powered versions of the Ford F-450 and F-550 Super Duty trucks in mid-2013.
The new product additions will complement the Westport WiNG System powered Ford F-250 and F-350 trucks.
"Our CNG bifuel systems for Ford F-250 and F-350 trucks have been very well received and as a result, our customers are making increasing requests for customized options and natural gas trucks with higher gross weights," said John Lapetz, vice president, North America Vehicle Programs, Westport LD.
Westport is expanding its product line to further serve delivery and utility companies, energy-industry fleets and government. The new 2013 F-450 and F-550 trucks will be built at the Westport Kentucky Integration Center next to Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant.
Consistent with the WiNG System powered F-250s and F-350s that are currently built at WKIC, the new models will be assembled using a fully integrated system and will undergo the same rigorous validation for safety and durability used by Ford. Trucks will be delivered using the Ford transportation system providing cost efficiencies in delivery to the end customer.
Westport is also currently developing relationships with service body companies to offer installation of second unit bodies on its F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks. In addition to the installation of the Westport WiNG System, customers may now choose the option to install second unit bodies with a single ship through, saving significant time and delivery costs. These service body options will also be available on the new F-450 and F-550 models.
The Westport WiNG System is priced at $9,500, which makes natural gas vehicles more affordable and accessible for U.S. truck fleets. The new natural gas powered Ford F-450 and F-550 Super Duty truck models will be offered at an equally competitive price, saving fleets between 25% and 40% in fuel costs with positive payback demonstrated in two years. The new models will be available exclusively through Westport's authorized Ford dealerships.
