Mercedes-Benz delivered its first natural gas-fueled big truck, called the Econic, to ALDI SUD, a grocery store food distributor in Monchengladbach, Germany.

The truck is a cab-over design (popular in Europe) with a lower profile for easier navigation through city environments.  The Econic won the Blue Angel environmental award for its ultra-low emissions performance and operation.

This first delivery of the Econic is a test for the vehicle’s on-road viability for ALDI SUD, who operates about 100 trucks in its distribution fleet to over 1,750 stores throughout Germany and bordering EU nations.  ALDI SUD plans to replace most of their trucks with more eco-friendly vehicles over the next few years and if this works out, the Econic may be that replacement.

This first truck will work in the Monchengladbach area on the left bank of the Lower Rhine.  In this urban environment, the truck will function not only to deliver the goods, but also to lower noise levels and almost entirely eliminate emissions.

Mercedes-Benz is a Daimler corporation, which also owns Daimler Trucks North America, Detroit Diesel, and Daimler Buses, among other recognizable brands.

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