Earlier this week UPS announced it will invest $50 million to build nine new liquefied natural gas (LNG) refueling stations over the next year for a total of 13 new LNG refueling stations by the end of 2014.
According to the company’s website, “the enhanced LNG fueling infrastructure will support the operation of approximately 1,000 UPS LNG tractors that will displace more than 24 million gallons of diesel fuel annually.”
Like many other companies with substantial fleets, UPS is increasingly relying on domestic natural gas as a transportation fuel.
“The natural gas industry needs companies to commit to using natural gas to help establish a reliable alternative to traditional fuel, and that is just what UPS is doing,” said David Abney, UPS chief operating officer. “The UPS strategy is both environmentally friendly and economically viable. LNG is becoming more readily available, plus it’s more insulated from market volatilities than diesel fuel.”
UPS also plans to buy 1,000 LNG-powered tractors to move its loads of boxes and packaged goods, the company said.
UPS operates one of the largest alternative fuel and advanced technology fleets in the shipping industry, with 2,700 vehicles running on electricity, hybrid-electric systems, CNG, LNG, liquid propane gas, or biomethane.
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