INDIANAPOLIS — HME unveiled an all-new fire, EMS and rescue Armada response vehicle powered by a clean-emission, compressed-natural-gas (CNG) engine at FDIC. The rig is powered by a Cummins Westport 8.9-liter CNG engine that produces 320 hp with 1,000 pound-feet of torque. At the same time, it meets EPA and CARB 2010 emissions without DEF and SCR systems that are required on diesel engines, said Dave Fornell, the company’s director of marketing. The exhaust system is comprised of a three-way catalyst that meets the EPA useful-life requirement and is maintenance-free, Fornell explained.

Compressed-natural-gas engines have a number of advantages. For example, they meet EPA requirements without having the urea injection and extra filters, Fornell said. In addition, he said customers using natural gas engines report less oil consumption, improved idling, longer intervals between service calls, and low cost per mile through the use of clean, domestically produced, compressed natural gas.

“You’re also contributing to a cleaner environment,” Fornell said.

The rig will feature a stainless steel high-cubic footage rescue style body, 750-gpm pump, 500-gallon tank, hydraulic generator and foam system mounted on HME’s SFO, compact chassis, Fornell said.

It costs under $300,000, Fornell said.