Why Should You Consider Converting To CNG from Other Fuel Types?

Why Should You Consider Converting To CNG from Other Fuel Types?

Global warming and poor air quality are two of the most prevalent threats to humankind. While there is not much that can be done regarding the rising global demand for vehicles and modes of transportation, surely some efforts can be made to switch to more eco-friendly fuels.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is an eco-friendly and affordable fuel option that will make a significant difference in the environment in the long run.

 

Electric vehicles are another alternative that comes to mind, however, it is expensive and the current automobile variants cannot be converted into electric car models.  Purchasing a new car is a major investment and not everyone may be ready for it. The silver lining is one can convert their car from petrol into CNG  by using a CNG conversion kit. The CNG conversion procedure is simple, affordable, and enhances the car's performance.

Reasons to Convert Car to CNG

If you’re still unsure about modifying your car so it can run on CNG, here are some important benefits that will convince you to convert your car to CNG.

 

• Eco-Friendly

Petrol and diesel, which have conventionally been used as fuel, aren’t the cleanest options we have. Compressed natural gas is a cleaner alternative. In comparison with gasoline vehicles or diesel automobiles, CNG cars have a cleaner carbon footprint. In the latter option, carbon monoxide emissions are reduced by around 70%, carbon dioxide emissions by around 20%, and nitrogen oxide discharges by around 87%. 

• Increases Efficiency

By switching vehicles from petrol to CNG does not mean one has to trade in vehicle performance in exchange for an eco-friendly option. CNG is essentially methane at high pressures and has a higher octane rating than petrol or diesel. CNG’s octane rating is 130, while petrol’s octane rating is only around 87 to 88, depending on the lead content, therefore it is a comparatively more efficient fuel option.

• Safe Alternative

When it comes to safety, CNG has science backing it up. Firstly, CNG’s range of flammability is quite narrow; it only combusts if its concentration in air is between 5% and 15%. Secondly, it mixes with the air easily. So, in rare cases when there’s a leakage of CNG, the gas dissipates into the air unlike gasoline, which tends to pool on the ground and pose a very real fire hazard. CNG is also non-toxic and non-corrosive, and it doesn’t seep into the ground and contaminate groundwater. In addition to this, CNG tanks are stronger than gasoline tanks. All of these factors make CNG cars a much safer alternative compared to gasoline-driven vehicles.

• Pocket-Friendly

With all these advantages, you’d think CNG would be more expensive than gasoline or diesel. The truth is, compressed natural gas is significantly more affordable. Gasoline is around three times costlier than natural gas. Not only are CNG cars cheaper concerning fuel, but the costs of maintaining them are also lower in the long run. 

• Readily Available

The supply of compressed natural gas is abundant and there is also an extensive and well-established network for distributing the same. The number of CNG fueling stations in India is also increasing. If you have a CNG car, you can easily get it refuelled without having to worry about the availability of a fueling station near you.

• Dual Facility

One of the major reasons why you should convert a car to CNG is that you can run it on both CNG as well as petrol. If you run out of one fuel type, you can always switch to the other one and continue your ride. This way, you do not have to worry about being stranded mid-journey.

• Increased Oil Life

Another important reason to convert cars to CNG is that it will increase the life of lubricating oils. Compressed natural gas does not contaminate or dilute the crankcase oil. This results in an increased life of the oil.

• Beneficial for Car Engines

Compressed natural gas is known to be one of the cleanest types of fuel. This is mainly because CNG leaves comparatively less residue than petrol or diesel. This results in less damage to pipes and tubes of the vehicle’s engine and the lifespan of your engine are increased. 

• Low Maintenance Cost

If you convert a car to CNG, the cost of maintenance for your vehicle will be lowered. This is mainly because of less contamination and the increased lifespan of your engine. This cost is much lower when compared to cars running on other fuels.

Installation Guide of the CNG Kit

If you wish to convert your petrol car to a CNG-powered car, make sure you get it done only at a professional garage that is reputed for handling this job. Do not try to install a CNG kit on your own as it involves many dangerous components and even a small mistake can lead to gas leaks or accidents. Once your CNG kit has been successfully installed, you should make sure to service your vehicle regularly and fill your car with the special engine oil that CNG-fitted cars require. You should also know that using CNG as fuel may affect the performance of your car negatively.

Conclusion

These are only some of the many reasons to convert cars to CNG. Once you convert a car to CNG safely, make sure your vehicle is covered by car insurance, so you can mitigate any potential damages. You will also mandatorily need a third-party insurance plan to drive on the Indian roads, as per the traffic rules in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. If you need a new policy, or if your old one needs renewal, all you need to do is visit the Bajaj Markets online portal. You can choose a car insurance plan that suits you best, whether it is a comprehensive car policy or a third-party liability plan.