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Vancouver-based Westport Innovations Inc., which engineers natural-gas engines and vehicles, announced a restructuring of its board in preparation for the previously announced merger with Fuel Systems Solutions Inc., which provides natural-gas transportation, infrastructure and industrial products.

Westport Innovations Inc. and Fuel Systems Solutions Inc., suppliers of technology for natural gas-powered trucks, agreed on a merger valued at $351 million to capitalize on opportunities when alternative fuel markets improve.

Natural gas-technology provider Westport Innovations Inc.’s fourth-quarter and full-year losses narrowed as results from its joint venture with engine maker Cummins Inc. improved.

Westport Innovations Inc. said it has acquired Prins Autogassystemen Holding B.V., a Dutch supplier of propane and natural-gas vehicle technologies, in a deal valued at 12.2 million euros, or about $15 million.

Westport Innovations Inc. is cutting its global staff by 9% and implementing executive pay cuts in an effort to reduce expenses after third-quarter sales dropped from a year ago.

Westport Innovations reported a second-quarter loss but said it shipped more natural-gas engines for the North American trucking market through its joint venture with Cummins Inc.

Westport Innovations, which makes natural-gas engines for trucking in a venture with Cummins Inc., reported a first-quarter loss. Revenue, however, rose 39%.

Westport Innovations Inc. and Delphi Automotive have signed an agreement to develop high-pressure fuel injectors for heavy-duty truck engines that use natural gas.