CNG Vs EV: Which Makes More Sense in 2024?

As petrol price continues to sore, customers are pushed to move towards fuels that promise lower emissions and lower running costs. Among the many options available, CNG cars and EVs have emerged as the top choice. But as technology constantly evolves, deciding which one is better can be tricky. In this story let’s try to understand the pros & cons of owning both a CNG and an EV, before finalising which and better.
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CNG Vs EV: Introduction

Introduced as a low-cost substitute to petrol in the early 2000s, CNG started its journey as the retro-fitted alternative. It was not until 2010 that we saw the first factory-fitted CNG car, the Maruti Suzuki Alto. Ever since then, the technology has evolved and now more and more manufacturers are joining the CNG bandwagon.

Similar to CNG, the first popular electric car in India was the Reva, which was launched back in 2001. After Reva was acquired by Mahindra & Mahindra, the electric vehicle scene in the country shut down with no new products. But once again in 2020, Tata Motors revived the EV segment with the launch of the Nexon EV. Ever since then, this segment of the market has been on the rise with more and more manufacturers joining the race.

Read More: Should You Buy a Diesel Car in 2024?

CNG Vs EV: Benefits

In addition to being environmentally friendly, both CNG and electric vehicles offer a host of other common benefits. These include 

Lower Running Cost: Compared to petrol/diesel vehicles, CNG and EVs offer a significant reduction in running costs. This is mainly due to the easy/cheap availability of electricity and natural gas

Lowered Tailpipe Emission: While EVs contribute to zero tailpipe emission, CNGs offer a substantial reduction despite being a fossil fuel. This is thanks to the clean burning of natural gas which does not emit any smoke or poisonous gas after combustion.

Alongside the above-mentioned common benefits, CNG owners also enjoy a hassle-free experience due to the wider availability of CNG pumps and faster refuelling when compared to electric vehicles. While EV owners enjoy a smooth and silent rider with negligible maintenance cost which is impossible to achieve on a CNG car.

Read More: 3 Upcoming Petrol Tata SUVs in 2024

CNG Vs EV: Drawbacks

Now that we know the benefits of each fuel type. Let’s take a look at the cons of owning both, starting with the CNG:

Lower Power and Performance: Compared to petrol or diesel, CNG engines offer less pick-up and power. This is mainly due to the lower calorific value of the fuel.

Boot Space Limitations: CNG needs to be stored in large tanks which eat into boot space. While Tata Motors has come up with a solution for this issue with its dual-cylinder technology, CNG cars still offer a smaller boot.

Higher Upfront Cost: While CNG kits can be installed in existing petrol vehicles, CNG cars from the factory usually charge a premium over their similar petrol models.

Compared to the CNG, electric vehicles offer significantly better performance. But EV owners are always worried about:

Range Anxiety: Current battery tech limits the driving range of EVs on a full charge compared to CNG vehicles on a full tank.

Charging Infrastructure: Adding to the above-mentioned problem, the lack of functional charging stations means careful planning of each drive, which takes away from the fun of long-distance journeys.

Reliability: While CNG cars have been accepted as mainstream, EVs are still a niche in the country. This is mainly due to the higher upfront costs and unreliable image attached to electric vehicles. In the recent past, we have witnessed numerous instances of EVs catching fire, which has put massive doubt in customer’s minds about these models.

CNG Vs EV: Which one to Choose?

Well, the battle of CNG Vs EV is said to continue for a long time. There is no clear winner as both models appeal to a different set of customers.

Choose a CNG Car if: Your daily commute is within a limited range and affordability is a top priority. You frequently travel outside major cities where CNG stations are more prevalent.

Choose an EV if: You prioritize a smooth and silent driving experience. You have access to overnight charging at home or have access to a reliable public charging infrastructure. And also, if you don’t mind planning long trips around charging stations.

So, both CNG and EV technologies are here to stay. With rapid evolution and a steady push from the government for electrification, EV looks to be the fuel of tomorrow. While for 2024, CNG is the more viable and affordable alternative fuel choice. Additionally, giants like Tata Motors are set to revolutionise the CNG market with new innovations like the turbo CNG and AMT CNG powertrain options.

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