Westport Innovations Inc. has been awarded $2.25 million to develop heavy-duty LNG fuel systems for the Cummins ISX engines in preparation for the EPA’s 2010 emissions standards.

The funding, which was awarded by the South Coast Air Quality Management District, the California Energy Commission and the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, will support the development, demonstration, commercialization and certification of the LNG (liquefied natural gas) systems.

“Working with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, the California Energy Commission and the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, Westport is proud to be paving the way in helping our customers meet the highest emissions standards in the world today,” stated Michael Gallagher, President and Chief Operating Officer of Westport.

“In order to meet our clean air goals here in Southern California, we need to accelerate the deployment of clean-fueled heavy-duty vehicles. This investment in Westport’s clean vehicle technology is an important step in making this goal a reality,” said Barry Wallerstein, SCAQMD Executive Officer.

Under the terms of the agreement, Westport will receive $1.25 million from the SCAQMD, $250,000 from each port and $500,000 from the CEC.