The Volkswagen vehicle, manufactured by MAN Latin America, was converted to run 100% on natural gas for Ambev distribution operations. After providing with beverages to Maracanã, which is the biggest football stadium in Brazil, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the truck will spend six months of trials in the neighborhood of Tijuca, in Rio de Janeiro.
According to a report published by O Povo newspaper on its website, the goal is to replicate the experience in other parts of the country, including Fortaleza.
The CNG powered VW Constellation truck is operated by Coopercarga carrier and the fuel is provided by Gas Natural Fenosa. According to Ambev, the new vehicle, which was introduced in March, achieves a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions, while offering greater comfort to drivers, since it reduces engine noise levels.
The Ambev Logistics director Rodrigo Otávio stressed that the project is part of a global action that seeks to achieve a more sustainable production and transportation. Furthermore, during the World Environment Day this year (June 5), the company said it expects to obtain 15% reduction in carbon emissions in its operations until the end of 2017.
The average age of the Ambev fleet -one of the country’s largest ones-, is now 3.78 years old. Since 2011, all purchased vehicles have been equipped with emission reduction systems. Last year, 194 trucks were replaced and this year, over 249 vehicles should be replaced, which will enable a decrease of about 22% of CO2 emissions.
