Truck-Fuel Tipping Point

摘要

If there is a critical mass for natural gas as a motor fuel-the point at which the automotive industry will not turn back, in spite of problems and obstacles-it might be approaching if it's not already here. Here's why: 1.Gas is in the ground in great abundance and is being energetically extracted; 2.The fueling infrastructure is being built, though mostly at truck stops; 3..Manufacturers are offering more engines and equipment to allow operators to utilize this cheap and clean-burning fuel; and 4.Incremental costs-the premiums paid over standard diesel- or gasoline-powered trucks-are meanwhile coming down. Throw in intense interest in natural gas reported by truck builders, and we have a bandwagon that's rolling and picking up speed. It seems that anybody with any sense should be on it, or chasing after it, or at least watching who's aboard and why.