• 05 Jul 2016

Two weeks ago, French transportation and logistics company Perrenot Group placed an order for 250 natural gas powered trucks - the largest fleet of LNG trucks in Europe. The new trucks IVECO Stralis NP “TCO2  Champion” are equipped with the most advanced technology for the gas, in particular with a new engine, 400 hp, which combined with the dual configuration of the LNG tank has increased the autonomy of the machine up to 1,500 km. Founded in 1945, Perrenot Group has grown to be one of France’s leading transport brands across all sectors (mass distribution, long haulage, bulk, containers, logistics, etc.), both nationally and internationally. In 2012, the Group was among the first in Europe to use biomethane-powered Iveco tractors in their operations. In 2013, having tested other alternative energy solutions, Iveco's natural gas technologies proved to be the natural choice for Perrenot Group with the purchase of the first CNG refrigerated transporters fuelled  by  liquid  nitrogen.  In  2014,  the  Group  took  yet  another innovative step, commissioning the first LNG tractors in France. However, 2016 has marked a historic turning point in the collaboration between Perrenot Group and Iveco with this exceptional order for 250 natural gas Stralis NP “TCO2  Champion”. In addition to the significant reduction in CO2, the choice of natural gas has also proved to be an economically-viable option, as the price difference between natural gas and petrol generates substantial fuel savings – especially so on long distances. The resulting reduction in TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) contributes to the return on investment. Finally, the fast growth in the number of natural gas refuelling stations will enable the development of clean long distance transport on a large scale. After signing the agreement, Jacky Perrenot, President and founder of Perrenot Group, stated: “Today we are taking a key step in our development thanks to Iveco’s advanced natural gas technology. The exceptional performance of the new Stralis NP confirms we made the right choice with Iveco’s natural gas technology as the best alternative to diesel fuel, both economically and environmentally.” Pierre Lahutte, Iveco Brand President, added: “With this historic order Perrenot Transport will be running the largest fleet of natural gas trucks in Europe. We are very proud of Perrenot Group’s trust in Iveco, which is the result of the unique partnership that has allowed our two groups to write a new important chapter in the history of sustainable transport in Europe.”