Manhattan Beer Distributors recently purchased 35 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered Volvo VNM 200 model tractors for its New York City fleet. Manhattan Beer executives said they chose Volvo models due to the strong relationship with its dealer and because the VNM 200 – Volvo’s regional haul daycab – offered the durability of a Class 8 model paired with the maneuverability necessary for urban deliveries.

The Volvo VNM 200 models, powered by 9.0L Cummins Westport ISL-G CNG engines, emit about 20% less greenhouse gas emissions than comparable diesel-powered models.

Manhattan Beer’s new Volvo models also improve the company’s freight efficiency. The company is using its single rear axle Volvo VNM 200 tractors with trailers that have 16 beverage bays to replace straight trucks with 10 beverage bays. In New York City, straight trucks are limited to 35 feet in length while combinations can run 55 feet. Manhattan Beer cannot cover a typical route with a single straight truck, but it can with a combination. The company specified the tractors with single rear axles to provide maximum maneuverability in challenging New York City distribution routes.

Juan Corcino, director of fleet operations for Manhattan Beer, said that freedom from the operation and maintenance of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems played a major role in justifying the investment in CNG.

Volvo offers CNG and liquefied natural gas (LNG) solutions for both the Volvo VNM 200 and the Volvo VNL 300 that's powered by the 12.0L Cummins Westport ISX12 G engine.

Manhattan Beer Distributors operates 110 CNG-powered trucks in a total fleet of more than 500, which are predominantly medium-duty straight trucks.