Pioneer Natural Resources Makes the Move to Westport™ WiNG Natural Gas Systems for its Light Duty Fleet

published: July 31, 2012

Westport Innovations Inc. (TSX:WPT) (NASDAQ:WPRT), the global leader in natural gas engines, and Pioneer Natural Resources today announced that Pioneer is adding 225 bi-fuel, Westport™ WiNG natural gas powered Ford F-250 Super Duty trucks to its fleet.

Pioneer has begun transitioning a number of its fleet vehicles from gasoline and diesel powered to those able to run on more cost-effective compressed natural gas (CNG) for light-duty, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) for heavy-duty applications.

"Pioneer strives to lead by example with our commitment to natural gas vehicles and engines in our own operations," said Jay Still, Executive Vice President of Domestic Operations at Pioneer. "Transitioning to natural gas for our fleet fuel is good economics, good for the environment and good for American jobs."

"Our team at Pioneer has been driving the WiNG powered Ford F-250s since they first became available earlier this year, and we've been impressed with the simple order process, delivery times, product and the company," said Lynn Lyon, Manager of Strategic Projects at Pioneer. "I had a chance to visit the assembly center in June and was impressed with the team and the highly-sophisticated facility."

Westport LD recently officially opened the Westport Kentucky Integration Center (WKIC) in Louisville where the natural gas WiNG power systems are installed on Ford F-250 and F-350 bi-fuel pickup trucks. With the ability to run on either natural gas or gasoline, the Ford trucks offer drivers more than 650 miles of range with two full tanks, and can take advantage of a low cost, domestic fuel.

"Pioneer is one of our most important customers and we're proud that they have chosen Westport WiNG quality and our ability to deliver," said John Howell, Senior Director of Marketing and Development, Westport LD. "We're pleased with the industry recognition of Westport LD so soon after opening our new facility. It's a great vote of confidence in the WiNG product, and it's encouraging that we're able to establish a growing market for Ford Super Duty trucks that can be powered by natural gas."

Westport continues to be recognized as an advanced gaseous fuels technology partner to global automotive manufacturers. To support a variety of OEM programs that will enable personal and commercial vehicles to run on natural gas, Westport LD has recently established the assembly center in Louisville, and the Michigan Technical Center in Detroit.

Video of WKIC is available at:
http://www.wingpowersystem.com/media/video/
http://www.youtube.com/WiNGPowerSystem