With the logistics industry constantly upgrading with new driver monitoring systems and efficient fleet management systems, powertrains too are looking at massive changes. Be it reliability, or ease of driving, or looking at sheer operational costs, diesel engines have been the gold standard. Greenline though takes the LNG powered approach towards heavy trucking as the emissions are even lower, alongwith lower maintenance costs as well. Anand Mimani, who is the CEO of Greenline Mobility Solutions, discussed with Mobility Outlook how he bbelives fuelling infra expansion and collaborations will further enhance the adoption of LNG power solutions for India’s logistics industry.
Could you elaborate on the technological advancements GreenLine has adopted in LNG-powered trucks compared to traditional diesel trucks?
At GreenLine, our LNG-powered trucks offer a multitude of advancements over traditional diesel counterparts, delivering both environmental and operational advantages. Through the utilisation of LNG engines, we achieve significantly reduced emissions of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, sulfur oxides, and carbon dioxide, with impressive reductions compared to diesel trucks. Our commitment to innovation extends to the integration of advanced telematics systems in our LNG trucks, enabling real-time data transmission on vehicle health for predictive maintenance and breakdown prevention. Additionally, our system employs ADAS cameras to monitor driver behaviour, enhancing safety during operations. Moreover, our online tracking system provides customers with real-time fleet monitoring and route optimisation capabilities, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and transparency.
What challenges did you face in integrating LNG technology into heavy trucking, and how were these overcome?
With the backing of our subsidiary Ultra Gas & Energy Ltd (UGEL), we take charge in establishing LNG fuel hubs, addressing hurdles in integrating LNG technology into heavy-duty trucking, particularly limited infrastructure. Through the expansion of the LNG refuelling network along pivotal transportation routes, we guarantee a consistent fuel supply for our trucks while propelling broader industry acceptance and adoption of LNG technology.
With the expansion of LNG-powered trucks, what strategies has GreenLine implemented to develop the necessary refuelling infrastructure across India?
We recognise the crucial role of a robust refuelling network in the success of LNG-powered trucks across India. Through our subsidiary, Ultra Gas & Energy Ltd (UGEL), we are at the forefront of providing eco-friendly logistics solutions with operational LNG hubs in Chennai and Anand. We aim to expand our network to 100 LNG hubs across the country, envisioning ourselves as the largest privately-owned LNG automotive hub. Our strategic focus extends to establishing LNG retail outlets across key locations, spanning Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, Orissa, and Jharkhand. These outlets will strategically bridge transportation routes along the country's national highways, facilitating widespread adoption of LNG-powered heavy vehicles. Additionally, partnerships with fuel suppliers like B-LNG, MGL, further accelerate the expansion of the refuelling network, fostering collaboration and benefiting India's entire LNG trucking ecosystem.
How economically viable is it for logistics companies to switch to LNG from a longer-term perspective?
Switching to LNG presents a compelling case for long-term economic viability for logistics companies. With LNG typically being more economical than diesel, companies can achieve significant cost savings over time. Additionally, LNG engines require less maintenance, translating to reduced long-term expenses. Government incentives and emissions regulations further encourage the adoption of cleaner fuels, providing additional financial benefits. Moreover, the environmental advantages of LNG contribute to public health improvements and position companies favourably in a shifting regulatory landscape.
How does the partnership with Blue Energy facilitate the manufacturing of eco-friendly trucks, and what are the key technical synergies between the two companies?
Leveraging our shared affiliation within the Essar Group, we benefit from streamlined communication and close collaboration, facilitating efficient information sharing, joint planning, and coordinated decision-making. Blue Energy Motors' expertise in LNG truck production, tailored for heavy-duty applications, perfectly aligns with GreenLine's focus on green mobility solutions. This expertise allows us to develop and integrate cleaner-burning LNG engines for our trucks.
Additionally, our emphasis on telematics and onboard diagnostics synergises with Blue Energy Motors, enabling the creation of advanced diagnostics for enhanced performance monitoring and preventive maintenance. Overall, our partnership fosters a collaborative environment that accelerates the development and production of smart trucks, providing sustainable logistics solutions to corporations.
Can you provide specific data on the reduction in carbon emissions achieved through using LNG trucks compared to conventional trucks?
Utilising LNG engines in our trucks has led to remarkable reductions in harmful emissions compared to traditional diesel trucks. LNG trucks achieve reductions of up to 30% in CO2, 100% in SOx, 59% in NOx, 91% in PM, and 70% in CO emissions. As a result, we have successfully reduced a substantial 3,826 tonnes of carbon emissions to date. To put this into perspective, this reduction is equivalent to the efforts of 153,086 trees in mitigating carbon emissions in the atmosphere. With our LNG trucks covering over 12.3 million kilometers on Indian roads, we have made a tangible impact on Scope 3 emissions, playing a vital role in India's clean air initiatives and advancing towards a more environmentally sustainable future for transportation.
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