Nexio Power Deploys First Class 7 Propane Bobtail in Texas

The truck, unveiled August 8 at the Irving Convention Center, represents a significant shift for regional logistics. Built on a 7.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine paired with an Allison 3500 RDS six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle is currently integrating into the daily delivery routes of PICO Propane and Fuels, a subsidiary of Meritum Energy Holdings. Unlike typical pilot programs that struggle with infrastructure access, this unit draws from PICO’s existing supply network across Texas, allowing for immediate, real-world performance tracking.

Nexio Power is using the deployment to gather field data as it navigates the final stages of EPA and CARB certification, a process bolstered by a $6 million commitment from the Propane Education & Research Council. For PICO, the move is a strategic bet on the viability of propane for heavy-duty fleets. Gary Winemaster, CEO of Nexio Power, noted that the industry has sought a dedicated propane-powered bobtail for decades. Christopher Hill, CEO of Meritum Energy Holdings, described the vehicle as a potential turning point for fleets currently reliant on traditional fuels, citing the transition from concept to active commercial service as a key milestone for his company’s operations.