PERC Invests $6 Million in Nexio to Boost Propane Vehicle Certification Efforts

Nexio Power, Inc., a Texas-based innovator in alternative fuel vehicles, proudly announces that the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has entered into a $6 million partnership aimed at obtaining crucial certifications necessary for dedicated propane-powered commercial vehicles within the U.S. market. The financial backing from PERC emphasizes a collective movement toward sustainable transportation, especially in commercial fleets where the demand for environmentally friendly options continues to surge.

Advancing Propane-Powered Solutions

This significant investment will expedite the certification process with both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), focusing on a dedicated propane vehicle platform. Plans include certifying medium to heavy-duty Class 7 trucks designed to cater to various commercial applications, including propane delivery vehicles and work trucks.

Gary Winemaster, CEO of Nexio Power, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, "This collaboration with PERC extends beyond just financial support. The insights we have gleaned from industry stakeholders such as propane marketers and fleet operators have been instrumental in shaping our product development from the outset."

Winemaster believes that the shift towards propane benefits not only operational costs but also environmental goals. He adds, "Fleets that commit to propane-powered trucks stand to gain significant cost advantages while simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint."

Addressing Market Needs

Nexio's initiative is particularly crucial considering the existing absence of a propane truck that matches diesel trucks' power and performance capabilities, tailored specifically for the operational requirements of commercial fleets. With features such as a robust 7.2-liter V8 engine generating 330 horsepower and 775 lb.-ft. of torque, the new propane engine paired with an Allison 3500 RDS automatic transmission and a liquid propane fuel system promises performance on par with diesel counterparts. Furthermore, the design eliminates the necessity for diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and complex aftertreatment systems typical of diesel engines, thereby reducing maintenance costs and operational downtime for fleet operators.

Fleet operators could see approximately $25,000 in annual fuel savings per truck compared to traditional diesel vehicles, bolstering their economic benefits while committing to a cleaner environment.

Collaborative Growth and Future Outlook

PERC's engagement in this certification program addresses a notable gap in the market for commercially dedicated propane vehicles, enhancing the existing infrastructure aimed at promoting propane as a fuel source. Tucker Perkins, CEO of PERC, emphasized that this collaboration exemplifies their dedication to advancing technology that paves the way for new markets in both on-road and off-road applications. Perkins stated, "This endeavor presents fleets with the opportunity to significantly lower emissions while benefiting from affordable fuel sourced domestically."

The development of Nexio’s propane truck platform has been shaped by industry engagement, manifesting in refinements to vehicle design and safety features. The public comment period that accompanied PERC’s approval brought forth valuable feedback that was integral in perfecting the truck’s specifications, ensuring they meet U.S. market demands adequately.

Nexio plans to put a fleet of these newly engineered vehicles through rigorous EPA and CARB certification testing, with projections to commence real-world evaluations shortly. Furthermore, the company is collaborating with the Lufkin Economic Development Corporation to establish a dedicated manufacturing facility that will streamline engine production and assembly processes.

As the propane market gears up for expanded domestic use, Nexio is keen to drive adoption, enhance fuel demand, and support U.S. energy security. With production vehicles anticipated to roll out by early 2027, the order book is already open, signifying robust interest across the propane and commercial fleet sectors.

In summary, this partnership between PERC and Nexio not only seeks to elevate propane’s role in commercial transportation but also represents a proactive step toward decarbonization, promising economic stability and sustainable energy solutions for the industry’s future.

For more details about Nexio and its initiatives, you can visit NexioTrucks.com. Additionally, learn more about PERC and its commitment to the propane industry at Propane.com.