Schneider National Inc. is testing two Detroit Diesel Corp. DD15 BlueTec  SCR engines, installed in Freightliner Cascadia tractors, and has already  logged  more than 45,000 mi. already.

“By actually field-testing the technology, we are putting the units into real-life situations, which ultimately helps Detroit Diesel engineers to identify every possible issue in advance,” said Steve Duley, vp of purchasing for Schneider

Duley added that daily feedback, including driver reaction, is provided to Detroit Diesel. “We are confident the experience we gain from (the customer demo units) will give us additional time to prepare for the transition” to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2010 emissions requirements.”

Schneider began testing the trucks in late January. The company selected a small group of drivers and provided training on the operation of the vehicles.

“Wise use of our natural resources is important to our customers and to Schneider National,” said Duley. “New technologies and spec’ing our equipment with energy-efficiency in mind is critical to delivering on that promise.”

BlueTec is the solution to the 2010 diesel emission regs developed by Daimler, Detroit Diesel’s parent firm.  “Our customer-demo units help customers like Schneider gain experience with BlueTec emissions technology well ahead of 2010, helping to provide an easy transition,” said David Siler, director of marketing for Detroit Diesel. “Plus, by working closely with Schneider, we will continue to refine our technology, ensuring exemplary performance and fuel economy.”