Compressed natural gas (CNG) is gradually becoming a favorite among Indian car owners due to its cost-effectiveness, environmental protection and government support. With fuel prices rising, owning a CNG-powered car can save you a lot of money while reducing your carbon footprint. ICRA predicts that CNG will become the second largest passenger vehicle fuel in India by 2027, and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas plans to establish 17,500 CNG filling stations across the country by 2030.
In this blog we provide Comprehensive, data-backed guide CNG kit prices, types, benefits and how to make the switch.
What is a CNG kit?
one compressed natural gas kit is a conversion system that allows gasoline or diesel vehicles to run on compressed natural gas. Retrofitting a CNG kit involves adding key components to your vehicle for efficient fuel delivery and safety.
Key components of the CNG kit:
- compressed natural gas bottle: Safe storage of compressed natural gas. Cylinders undergo rigorous testing before receiving the qualified accessory standard mark.
- Electronic control unit (ECU): Regulates gas flow and ensures optimal engine performance.
- Pressure gauges and regulators: Maintain safe pressure levels to prevent surges or leaks.
- High pressure pipes and clamps: Transport gas throughout the system.
- switching module: Allows switching between CNG and gasoline/diesel.
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Types of CNG kits and their characteristics
1. Venturi CNG Kit
- Best for: Old vehicles with carburetors.
- cost: Rs 20,000- Rs 35,000.
- advantage:
- Easy to install, no need to remap the ECU.
- Affordable for the budget conscious user.
- shortcoming:
- Performance is choppy and acceleration is slow.
- Requires frequent cleaning and maintenance.
2. Continuous CNG Kit
- Best for: Modern fuel injected vehicles.
- cost: Rs 40,000 – Rs 50,000 (after sales); Rs 90,000 – Rs 1,00,000 (factory installed).
- advantage:
- Superior fuel economy and smoother acceleration.
- Advanced emissions control via ECU regulation.
- shortcoming:
- Installation costs are higher.
- Requires professional installation.
Subtypes of sequential kits:
- closed loop: Ideal for environmentally conscious users as it reduces emissions.
- open loop: Focus on better engine performance, but emit higher pollutants.
Why choose CNG? Key data and insights
- CNG Cost (Rs per kg): Rs 70 to Rs 80 (varies from state to state).
- Cost of petrol (rupees per liter): Rs 100 – Rs 110.
- On average, switching to CNG reduces fuel bills 40–50%. A car traveling 15,000 kilometers per year can save up to Rs 30,000 compared to petrol.
Related: The 10 Most Fuel-Efficient CNG Cars of 2024
Environmentally Friendly Alternatives:
- CNG vehicle emissions Carbon dioxide emissions reduced by 25% Significantly lower NOx levels compared to petrol/diesel cars.
- India adopts BS6 standard Consistent with reduced particulate emissions from CNG.
Add infrastructure:
- CNG filling stations in 2023: ~4,500.
- It is expected that by 2030: 17,500, ensuring wider availability.
CNG Kit Prices in India: Comprehensive Cost Breakdown
CNG kit type | Price range ($) |
Factory installed sequence kit | 90,000–1,00,000 |
Aftermarket serial kits | 40,000–50,000 |
Venturi Kit | 20,000–35,000 |
open loop setting | 15,000–20,000 |
Closed loop setup | 22,000–25,000 |
Additional costs to consider:
- RTO registration and RC endorsement: Rs 2,000- Rs 3,000.
- Insurance premium increases: Add approximately 10% to your annual premium.
- maintain: Varies based on components such as filters, spark plugs, and cylinders.
Top RTO Approved CNG Kit Brands
choose one RTO Approved Kit to ensure safety and reliability. Here is a list of trusted brands:
brand | Price ($) |
Tomasetto | 40,000 |
Lovato Auto Gas Company | 31,999 |
Bugatti | 45,000 |
long | 42,000 |
love it | 39,999 |
Randy Renzo | 30,000 |
Benefits of switching to CNG
- Reduce running costs: Save up to Rs 2.5 per km compared to petrol.
- Environmental friendly: Reduce exhaust emissions, in line with India’s green goals.
- Improve mileage: 1 kg CNG given Mileage increased by 25% More than 1 liter of gasoline.
- safer fuel: A higher auto-ignition temperature (540°C) makes CNG less flammable than gasoline/diesel.
- Reduce engine wear: CNG does not mix with lubricants, reducing engine wear over time.
Challenges to consider
- High initial cost: Modification cost is Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000, excluding maintenance charges.
- Limited startup space: CNG cylinders take up a lot of luggage space.
- Performance impact: Expect slight reductions in acceleration and air conditioning efficiency.
- longer refueling line: Current CNG infrastructure is not yet able to match the supply of gasoline/diesel.
Expert maintenance tips for CNG kits
- air filter: Clean every 5000 kilometers; replace every 10,000 kilometers.
- spark plug: Replace every 20,000–40,000 km for optimal ignition.
- throttle body: Clean once every 10,000 kilometers to prevent carbon accumulation.
- Gas cylinder test: Mandatory hydrostatic test every 3 years.
Interactive tools you can use
- cost savings calculator: Enter your daily mileage to estimate annual fuel savings.
- Compatibility checker: Verify whether your model supports CNG modification.
Should you switch to CNG?
Switching to CNG is an excellent option for Indian car owners who want to save on fuel costs while contributing to a cleaner environment. While the initial cost and maintenance requirements may seem high, the long-term savings and reduced emissions make it a worthwhile investment.
FAQ
- How much does a CNG kit cost to install?
Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 including installation charges. - Can CNG improve mileage?
Yes, CNG has 25% higher mileage than petrol. - Which is the best CNG kit brand?
Trusted brands include Tomasetto, Lovato Autogas and Bugatti. - Is CNG safe for cars?
Absolutely. CNG’s high ignition temperature and low flammability make it safer than gasoline or diesel.
Other reading: Best CNG Cars Under 10 Lakhs in India
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