"It's exciting to have another fuel option available for our customers," stated Joseph Policarpio, VP, sales and marketing for Gillig, about the newest CNG propulsion option added to Gillig's product lineup. "From an engine installation perspective, it's essentially the same as our current production buses. The real difference is the installation of the CNG fuel tanks, and Gillig already has extensive experience with roof mounted equipment from our pioneering work with hybrid systems."

The 40-foot bus completed Altoona testing in May 2011 and recorded an overall average fuel consumption of 1.02 miles per pound, or a diesel equivalent 6.01 miles per gallon, the best miles per gallon ever recorded at the testing center.

Gillig's engineers were able to obtain this result while also incorporating unique design features that provide better maintenance accessibility and a relatively lightweight bus.

This Gillig bus is equipped with a Cummins ISL-G engine, Allison B400R transmission and Modine E-Fan cooling package.

An additional benefit of the Gillig CNG installation is the tank mounting cradle, which incorporates a maintenance-friendly service aisle with aluminum anti-skid grating between the two rows of tanks. This modern design provides service personnel a safe place to work on the roof of the bus.

The Gillig tank system will be on display in Booth #4013.