Jul 14, 2009 2:13 PM

Kenworth Truck Company recently received a 2009 Exemplary Innovation Award from the California Economic & Workforce Development program in association with the California Community Colleges.

The firm was recognized for its participation in a pioneering partnership to develop the successful Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Heavy Truck Technician Training Program implemented at Long Beach City College (LBCC). Kenworth shares the award with LBCC, the Port of Long Beach, Westport Innovations, Cabrillo (CA) High School, and Long Beach Unified School District.

Kenworth was the first truck manufacturer to offer an LNG fuel system as a Class 8 factory-installed option. The T800 LNG truck offers superior performance and efficiency for heavy-duty port, freight, and vocational applications. A typical Class 8 truck using the cleaner-burning LNG fuel may reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) and greenhouse gas emissions by up to an estimated 33% and 20%, respectively, compared with a diesel-fueled truck. T800 LNG trucks may qualify for up to $28,800 in IRS tax credits.