BTI, Westport to partner on LNG deal in China

Alternative energy firm Westport Innovations Inc. has signed a partnership deal with Beijing Tianhai Industry Co. Ltd. to manufacture liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanks in China for sale to the trucking industry. Already a seller of natural gas engines through a joint venture with U.S. giant Cummins Inc., Vancouver-based Westport is teaming up with BTI, Asia's largest manufacturer of compressed natural gas containers. BTI is producing 1.5 billion units per year. Each company will contribute $400,000 (U.S.) toward the joint venture company, called BTIC Westport Inc., which aims to be a low cost manufacturer of LNG tanks for sale in markets in California and elsewhere. The companies will share the profits on an equal basis. Westport is providing the technology, with BTI contributing its manufacturing capabilities. WPT (TSE) rose one cent to 94 cents.