Westport introduces China’s first natural gas engine featuring HPDI technology

The innovative technological achievement and product introduction is the result of China’s first joint venture for HPDI natural gas engines—Weichai Westport Inc.—and fills a gap in the natural gas engine market for heavy-duty trucks. Based on the Weichai Power WP12 engine platform, the 12-litre engine features Westport HPDI technology which maintains the power and performance of the base diesel engine, but allows the replacement of up to 95% of diesel fuel with cleaner burning, less expensive natural gas.

“Weichai Power is committed to an economic and environmental transportation solution to address China’s environmental protection policy,” said Tan Xuguang, Chairman of Weichai Power. “Our technological research and development has been at the forefront of China’s internal combustion engine industry. By relying on its powerful production and technological capabilities, it has been engaging in extensive development with renowned international companies, like Westport, in the field of natural gas engines.”

The Weichai Westport HPDI engine is currently undergoing road testing with a select OEM customer, Shaanxi Automobile Group. The low cost of natural gas, combined with the large amount of domestic reserves, make it an attractive transportation fuel source for China.

“There are enormous potential fuel savings to be made if Chinese fleets adopt natural gas technology for transportation,” said David Demers, CEO of Westport Innovations. “The successful progress of the Weichai Westport HPDI engine marks a historic shift in technology and engine development in China.”

Source: Westport Innovations Inc.