Westport Innovations teams with Volvo to launch new bi-fuel car
by Canadian Manufacturing Daily Staff
Volvo V60 Bi-Fuel wagon employs Westport compressed natural gas system
VANCOUVER—Swedish automaker Volvo has unveiled a new bi-fuel passenger car thanks to a British Columbia firm’s natural gas fuel system expertise.
Unveiled at the NGV 2013 in Gothenburg, Sweden, the new 2014 Volvo V60 Bi-Fuel wagon employs compressed natural gas (CNG) technology thanks to Vancouver-based Westport Innovations Inc.
Westport has been Volvo’s sole supplier of natural gas fuel systems since 2009.
Set for Swedish production in October, the V60 Bi-Fuel runs on either CNG/biomethane or gasoline and has a total driving range of approximately 1,120 kilometres, according to Westport.
With the number of natural gas vehicles in Sweden expected to triple between 2010 and 2018, from 31,179 to 92,657, launching the V60 Bi-Fuel in Sweden first was a natural choice.
“Demand for natural gas vehicles in Sweden is expected to increase in response to the pending extension of the Government of Sweden alternative fuel tax incentive program,” Westport executive vice-president Ian Scott said in a statement.
“The launch of this product provides a new option for corporate and municipal fleet customers.”
The two firms are discussing expanding the V60 Bi-Fuel car into other markets.
