Inland Global Leasing

Freightliner Trucks has introduced its first natural gas-powered truck, the Freightliner Business Class M2 112 NG, which the company says is ideal for port operations, natural gas utilities and municipalities. Natural gas technology can save an estimated $6,000 in annual fuel and operating costs per truck, according to Melissa Clausen, director of product marketing for Freightliner Trucks, who noted that customers in states such as California will also benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles.

Peterbilt has added its Model 335 medium duty hybrid electric tractor to its family of hybrid vehicles eligible for federal tax credit. The credit of up to $9,000 from the Department of Treasury’s heavy manufacturing and transportation group can be applied to the Peterbilt Model 335 hybrid class 7 tractors based on its verified fuel savings gains of up to 40 percent.

Kenworth Truck Co.’s manufacturing plant here recently celebrated its 35th anniversary.
The plant, the company’s largest, has produced more than 325,000 trucks since it was opened in 1974. “The employees at Chillicothe have played a key role in Kenworth’s success over the past 35 years. Along with well-trained employees, we utilize leading-edge technology, production and logistics systems to build quality Kenworth trucks,” Scott Blue, plant manager, said.