Natural Gas Trucks and Buses to Increase Substantially

The expansion of natural gas supplies will make truck and bus fleet operators increasingly look for alternative fuels to fulfill their needs at lower costs and with lower emissions.

This means the market for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses that run on natural gas will increase significantly, according to a new report from Navigant Research.

The total number of natural gas trucks and buses on roads worldwide will grow from 1.5 million in 2014 to 3.7 million by 2022, Navigant says.

Natural Gas Trucks and Buses reports the vehicle market is somewhat tied to the growth of the overall economy and specific industries. But manufacturers have found some niches that have proven stronger than the overall market, particularly the refuse truck, day cab truck, and transit bus markets.

The report analyzes the global market for trucks and buses that are in the medium duty (10,000 to 26,000 pounds) and heavy duty (26,000 pounds or more) gross vehicle weight classes. The report also examines the key technologies related to natural gas storage on vehicles, as well as the competitive landscape.