Sponsored feature: Why CNG Cars Make Sense In 2019

With the world moving towards greener mobility, automobile manufacturers are now innovating to offer cars which drive on cleaner and greener fuels.

One of the many ‘research’ fuels gaining popularity (especially in India), is CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). Currently, this form is used mainly in the public transport systems and is common with private cab fleets as well. The Indian Government is working towards making it ‘the’ alternative fuel of the future in the country.

In the Indian context, CNG is a ‘green fuel’ that makes a strong case for itself as many automobile manufacturers in India now offer factory-fitted CNG variants for different car models. With stricter Bharat VI emission norms coming into force in 2020, the demand for factory-fitted CNG cars is bound to increase in the coming years.

So, what is CNG?

CNG, or Compressed Natural Gas, is a form of natural gas that is clear, odorless and non-corrosive under pressure. The fuel consists of methane, which produces energy when mixed with air in the engine’s combustion chamber to drive the vehicle.

CNG is an efficient, cheaper and greener alternative to conventional fuels such as petrol and diesel. This is because CNG burns cleaner, leaves no residue, and is safer than conventional fuels.

CNG cars have a bright future in India

Many automobile manufacturers in India understand the importance of CNG cars in India’s country-wide initiative to reduce vehicular emissions. With Electric Vehicles still nascent, CNG cars make immediate sense.

That is why the Indian Government is taking big strides to promote CNG-powered vehicles in the country. Many automobile manufacturers have reciprocated by introducing CNG variants of their products in the market.

S-CNG cars by Maruti Suzuki are leading the charge in this regard. As India’s largest passenger car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki offers a number of S-CNG cars in the market. These include the Celerio, Alto (800 and K10) and the WagonR.

The recently introduced Big New WagonR is the latest factory-fitted CNG car in Maruti Suzuki’s line-up. Available with factory-fitted CNG-kit, the new WagonR promises a ‘mileage’ of 33.54km/kg, making it a more efficient option as well.

But, does it make sense to own a CNG car?

Yes. CNG-powered cars are the immediate way ahead for the automobile industry. CNG offers a cleaner, greener and more efficient way to commute. It also reduces emissions of harmful gases by up to 25 percent compared to conventional fuels, with little to no residue. Shifting to CNG-powered vehicles also reduces the customer’s cost/kilometer. Another major benefit of moving towards CNG would be a reduction in air pollutants across major metros.

Are CNG cars safe and reliable?

Over the last decade, CNG technology has improved by leaps and bounds. Factory fitted CNG cars available in 2019 are proof of that. Take for instance the S-CNG technology that is being employed by Maruti Suzuki CNG cars at the moment. Here’s what you should know about it as a car-buyer: -

1. It uses dual interdependent ECUs which work in combination to ensure that the car is consistent in performance across different terrains, and fuel efficient.
2. Since the integration of CNG kit is from the ground up, the powertrain, chassis, suspension as well as braking is calibrated to work seamlessly within the CNG car.
3. The CNG pipes are stainless steels and uses patented Ferrule joints to ensure there is no leakage.
4. The wiring harness is integrated in such a manner that there is no risk of short-circuits.
5. Maruti Suzuki’s S-CNG cars come with a micro switch which ensures that the engine does not start during CNG fuel filling.
6. Last but certainly not the least, S-CNG cars are extensively crash tested to make sure it is safe and reliable throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.

The other big factor that might concern you as a potential CNG car buyer is the CNG availability in India, specifically in regions where you see yourself travelling often. Well, the Indian government has already announced their plans to invest Rs. 70,000 crore towards setting up CNG fuel stations across the country. In numbers, the government plans to increase the number of CNG stations from 1,400 to over 10,000 over the next few years.

If you have been looking to buy one of the upcoming CNG cars in India in 2019 but have been hesitant about going ahead with it, the points mentioned above will surely help to put your concerns to rest.