The Westport HPDI system uses natural gas as the primary fuel, along with a small amount of diesel as an ignition source or “liquid spark plug”. The system uses a patented injector with a dual-concentric needle which allows for small quantities of diesel fuel and large quantities of natural gas to be delivered at high pressure to the combustion chamber. (Earlier post.)

Specifics of the deal and the product have been withheld for competitive reasons, Westport said.

Under the terms of the agreement, each partner will contribute “significant resources” and pay for its own people and costs of the program. Westport will lead the program. Westport expects to invest approximately US$12 million and the schedule calls for product launch in 2014.

When the product is launched, Westport will supply its HD system components for an agreed upon amount per engine, comparable to other such arrangements previously announced.