Quantum Technologies, Lake Forest, California, says it has an answer to achieving long range for heavy-duty trucks on compressed natural gas.

"Historically, CNG has not been the fuel of choice for medium and heavy duty applications due to its limited range," said Hernan Henriquez, business development manager at Quantum. "However, Quantum's new 82 diesel gallon equivalent (DGE) system is a game changer providing a 500 mile range for these fleets."

Quantum achieves exceptional storage capacity through a high-pressure CNG type IV tank which is capable of storing 41 DGE/tank, or 82 DGE in the standard two-tank configuration. With both tanks, even a Class 8 truck achieving 6 MPG can run 500 miles between fill-ups.

Quantum's type IV CNG tank technology uses a cross-linked polyethelyne liner with a carbon fiber overwrap to achieve unparalleled fuel density, according to the company. New optimized carbon fiber winding techniques based on recent advances in Quantum's weight-sensitive aerospace applications and a technology advancement contract from the U.S. Department of Energy not only reduce tank weight, but also allow increased fuel storage in the same external volume.

The mammoth 534-liter tank weighs in at only 216 pounds. It's 25 inches in diameter and 80 inches long. These tank assemblies are integrated on OEM tractors through AFV in Fontana, California, a leading integrator in heavy-duty technology.

More info: www.qtww.com