TravelCenters, Shell plan to build natural gas fueling lanes network

TravelCenters of America LLC (NYSE Amex: TA) has entered a memorandum of understanding with Shell Oil Products US and its affiliates to construct and operate a network of natural gas fueling lanes at TA locations along the US Interstate Highway System.

The memorandum of understanding contemplates that Shell will construct and TA will operate at least 200 natural gas fueling lanes on at least 100 TA locations. Additional TA locations may be added depending upon customer demand. Locations will be jointly selected by TA and Shell with the intention of creating the infrastructure required to allow natural gas-powered trucks to travel across the United States.

TA operates a nationwide network of 238 travel centers, almost all of which are at Interstate exits. These locations operate under the brand names TravelCenters of America, TA, and Petro Stopping Centers. A typical TA location has more than 20 acres for truck and motorist parking; a large convenience store; sit-down and quick-serve restaurants; and a large, multi-bay truck repair and maintenance facility. In order to facilitate the introduction of natural gas-powered vehicles to the interstate trucking industry, TA expects to a train and equip a sufficient number of TA’s 3,000 repair technicians, 1,000 truck service bays, and 400 Road Squad emergency roadside repair vehicles to service natural gas-powered truck engines.

Details of the agreement between TA and Shell are expected to be completed during an exclusive negotiating period. The first natural gas fueling lanes for trucks traveling along the US Interstate Highway System are expected to be operational at TA locations during 2013.

Thomas M O’Brien, managing director, president, and chief executive officer of TA, said, “TA is pleased to be partnering with Shell, one of the largest energy companies in the world, to create the infrastructure necessary to offer TA’s trucking company customers an alternative fuel choice. TA is especially pleased to be helping ensure America’s energy independence.”