Maxim Kadakov, a journalist for "Za Rulem", presented a review of the KAMAZ-54901 main line tractor, which runs on liquefied natural gas (LNG). The K5 series vehicle is almost indistinguishable from its diesel counterparts in appearance, but has a fundamentally different fuel system and two cryotanks of 530 liters each, in which methane is stored at a temperature of -162 °C.
The gas engine produces 460 hp and 2000 Nm of torque, compared to 482 hp and 2400 Nm for the diesel. However, according to Kadakov, the difference in dynamics is almost imperceptible, and operation is significantly cheaper. The absence of a particulate filter and exhaust gas recirculation system simplifies maintenance.
The main advantage is economy. The price of LNG is about 57.8 rubles per kilogram, which is almost 60% lower than the cost of diesel fuel. With high mileage, savings can reach one million rubles per year. The guaranteed mileage on one tank is 1200–1400 km, and the network of cryogenic gas stations already covers key regions: from Moscow to Irkutsk.
KAMAZ trucks on LNG are actively used by logistics companies, including "Natkar". The vehicles operate in Moscow, Krasnodar, Rostov, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk. The cabin, 2.5 meters wide and 2 meters high, offers convenience and comfort to the driver. Inside there are two sleeping places and a multimedia complex.
In 2026, it is planned to produce 2100 KAMAZ trucks on LNG. For comparison: in China, 199 thousand vehicles on this fuel were sold last year. As Kadakov notes, the development of the gas vehicle market in Russia is supported by the state, and by 2030 the number of cryogenic gas stations will significantly increase.