Ryder to use 15 LNG trucks for Shell Oil fleet

Ryder Systems operates a dedicated fleet for Shell and is swapping out some diesel trucks for ones powered by natural gas.    Logistics provider Ryder System Inc. said it will use 15 liquefied natural gas tractors to support Shell Oil Co. operations in Lafayette, La., and Houston. 
   Ryder manages road transportation for Shell’s freight across its U.S. exploration and production operation, including a dedicated fleet in the Gulf of Mexico region. The new LNG-fueled trucks will replace Ryder diesel-powered vehicles. Ryder said it signed a five-year agreement with Shell to provide fuel for the vehicles.
   Ryder said it worked with Shell to develop a customized truck specification for LNG tanks that could maximize the legal weight hauled and revenue.
   Ryder has 18 natural gas vehicle maintenance facilities across the United States. It has deployed LNG and compressed natural gas fleets in many states.
   The Shell LNG vehicles are being paid for in part through grants from the state of Texas, as part of its emissions reduction plan.