VANCOUVER - Westport Innovations Inc., a natural gas engine provider, announced that the new natural gas Westport WiNG Power System (WiNG) will be available in the popular Ford F-250 and F-350 super-duty pickup trucks sold and serviced through authorized Ford dealers. The F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks, based on Ford's new 6.2L hardened engine platform, can also run on ordinary gasoline and offer unparalleled drivability. As part of the product launch with Ford super-duty pickup trucks, Westport LD has unveiled the new WiNG system, an advanced, integrated, bi-fuel system for passenger and commercial vehicles targeting fleet customers.

"We're seeing strong customer interest across the spectrum from fleets of all shapes and sizes for a factory-validated product, as more and more owners understand the economic and operational benefits of a cleaner fuel that's sourced right here in North America," said Ian Scott, president of Westport LD.

"The WiNG system is specifically designed to deliver best-in-class performance, reliability, and efficiency," noted John Lapetz, managing director, North American Vehicle Programs at Westport LD. "Our customers will benefit from the best natural gas technology in the industry along with the confidence and quality of the Ford name and the strength of their dealer network."

The Ford F-250 and F-350 pickups with the bi-fuel Westport WiNG Power System have undergone the same rigorous original equipment manufacturer (OEM) testing for safety and durability required for all OEM products. Engineered at the new Westport technical facility in Plymouth, Mich., WiNG systems will be installed and the trucks will be ready to roll when they reach authorized Ford dealers. They are designed to meet both EPA 2012 and CARB 2012 standards.

Westport demonstrated the WiNG-powered F-250 through a ride and drive at the Green Fleet Conference in Grapevine, Texas on Oct. 3-4and at the Natural Gas Vehicle Association (NGVA) conference in Fort Worth, Texas, on Oct 20-23. The F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks are expected to ship in the second quarter of 2012.

The F-Series has been America's bestselling truck line for more than 30 years. The economics and performance of natural gas powered trucks provide an ideal application for utility companies, delivery, and energy-industry fleets, as well as government and transit operators.