In 2023, due to significant differences in oil and gas prices, the "oil to gas" trend in the heavy-duty truck market swept across the country. How are these transporters who were the first to switch to natural gas heavy-duty trucks using them now? In order to gain a deeper understanding of their user experience, Transport People Network specifically interviewed Mr. Liu, a senior transport worker from Neijiang, Sichuan. He shared with us the experience of using natural gas tractors, and the most crucial aspect was the choice of power.

Risk resistance requires cost reduction. Natural gas vehicles are a good choice

　　Mr. Liu has been engaged in the transportation industry for over 20 years and has driven numerous vehicle brands. In recent years, due to changes in the market environment, he has chosen to sell his car and become a full-time driver.

　　He said, "The current situation in the freight market is like this, and no one can say that this year's revenue is better than last year. In order to reduce risks, we have all come out as drivers. To reduce risks, the fleet needs to control costs, so we are all using natural gas vehicles now."

　　As he said, last year was a period of transition from National IV and National V models to National VI models, and many transportation companies and individuals turned their attention to natural gas models. The reason is none other than low cost.

　　Mr. Liu's team has also followed the trend and gradually introduced several natural gas vehicle models. Among them, the vehicle driven by Master Liu was replaced with a new EST natural gas tractor under Foton Ouman.

　　Master Liu revealed that he had previously used the 9.6-meter cargo truck of the Ouman EST when maintaining his car, and was very familiar with Ouman's products. Both the vehicle quality and service are trustworthy. In actual use, the new car did not disappoint his expectations, especially the powerful power, excellent economy, and excellent reliability of the Fukang A15N engine, which left a deep impression on him.

Fukang A15N has outstanding solar term strength

　　Mr. Liu told a reporter from Transport Network that the Ouman New EST natural gas tractor he drives generally has a gas consumption of around 35kg/100km on mountain roads from Sichuan to Yunnan, while diesel vehicles with the same road conditions and displacement have a fuel consumption of nearly 40L/100km.

　　He said, "There is already a significant difference between oil and gas prices, and the Fukang A15N natural gas engine is indeed fuel-efficient when driven. To put it simply, after switching to this car now, I can save a thousand yuan on a trip to Yunnan compared to before."

　　Based on such performance, the Oman New EST natural gas tractor has undoubtedly brought significant economic benefits to the fleet in the current tight freight market and compressed profit margins, and is also a key factor in ensuring the stable income of Mr. Liu. As he said, "Anyway, the current market situation is about running more, saving more, and making more money. Only when the boss makes money can we have the money to take."

Powerful and worry free driving

　　Mr. Liu usually transports a variety of goods, including mechanical components, industrial raw materials, and general merchandise and building materials. His transportation route extends from the beautiful mountains and rivers of Sichuan to the majestic plateau of Yunnan, with varied scenery and complex terrain along the way.

　　This requires vehicles to have the ability to climb hills with heavy loads, as well as excellent stability and quality to ensure attendance and high timeliness.

　　According to Master Liu, the Ouman EST natural gas tractor he is driving is equipped with a Fukang A15N engine, a displacement of 15L, a maximum horsepower of 530, and a peak torque of 2500N · m. This engine has the advantage of low speed and high torque, allowing the vehicle to start faster and climb more vigorously, providing a solid power guarantee for Mr. Liu's efficient operation.

　　At the same time, the car is equipped with a ZF TraXon AMT gearbox, which has been deeply integrated with the engine for calibration. The vehicle's power chain transmission is efficient and uninterrupted, and the shifting experience is greatly improved. Master Liu said, "Compared to my previous manual transmission models, this car has a much lower driving intensity, especially the automatic transmission configuration, which is very worry free when driving on the highway."

Upgraded interior is reliable and comfortable

　　Mr. Liu spends about 8-9 hours driving every day, and the rest of the time resting in the car. The interior of this car has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including advanced features such as a high roof and flat floor, high-definition large screen, and intelligent silent air conditioning. Among them, the sleeper size of the vehicle reached 1010mm, which is the most satisfactory upgrade point for Master Liu.

　　In addition, the airbag suspension shock absorption seats equipped with the Ouman New EST natural gas traction have been upgraded, providing good support and ventilation and heating functions, which can greatly alleviate the fatigue of Mr. Liu's long-term driving.

　　Mr. Liu also mentioned that there have been no malfunctions affecting the operation of the vehicle during the past six months of use. Even if there are some minor problems, just call the 4S store and they can quickly solve them. The service is very professional and thoughtful.

　　Through time and across mountains and rivers, Master Liu's transportation route is still extending. He has flown for over 20 years, spanning millions of kilometers. At first, he set out with curiosity and desire to explore the world, but now this longing has deepened into a heavy responsibility for his family and children.