Public Funding for Hardstaff Barriers Limited

Hardstaff plans to develop in collaboration with Mercedes Benz a new dual fuel system for HGVs that comply with the forthcoming EURO 6 emissions regulations. Currently no such system exists in the market. Hardstaff OIGI® HDXi Dual Fuel Technology is an existing and proven and patented technology platform at Euro 5, which enables conventional diesel engines to run on a high percentage of Methane gas (Natural or Bio gas) stored in liquid or compressed form. Converted engines closely match original diesel power and performance characteristics, providing a reliable and effective dual fuel powertrain. The Hardstaff dual fuel technology maximises safe and efficient gas substitution, which together with the relative cost of gas and diesel results in significant operating cost savings to truck operators. CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 20%, together with meaningful reductions of the 2 in most problematic legislated emissions which are NOx and PM of around 30%. Cost savings through gas substitution can be up to and in excess of 30%. Operators of heavy duty trucks in cost conscious and environmental or emission sensitive industries or regions benefit from the results, which are significant fuel cost savings, a reduced environmental impact through reduced CO2, and reduced levels of legislated harmful emissions. In fuel intensive operations it results in short term financial payback and substantial financial returns over the life time of the equipment. Dual Fuel powered trucks offer the rare combination of reductions in operating cost, harmful emissions and greenhouse gasses. The project intent is to re-develop the successful Euro 5 platform in time for the launch of Euro 6 vehicles in 2014 enabling operators, the environment and UK manufacturing to continue to benefit from this innovative technology.