What is a CNG Kit? Installation, Price, and Benefits

1. The CNG gas is kept in the cylinder or fuel tank, which is mounted at the rear of your car. 
2. High-pressure gas is transferred through the fuel lines by the CNG fuel system after being released from the fuel tank. 

1. Pressure is decreased by the pressure regulator, which works well with the engine's fuel injection system. 
2. The air is then mixed with CNG when it is transferred to the combustion or manifold chamber. The compressed gas is ignited by the spark plug, which also starts the engine.

Pros and Cons of CNG Kits in India 

Given below are the Pros and Cons of CNG kits in India: 

Pros:

1. Affordability: Fitting a vehicle with a CNG kit will prove cost-effective in the long run. 
2. Efficient: Diesel automobiles cost about Rs.2 lakh more than their petrol-powered counterparts. However, a CNG model is Rs.90,000 more expensive than a petrol vehicle. This is due to its exceptional fuel efficiency, which leads to reduced operating costs. Installing a CNG in your vehicle is ideal if you plan to keep it on the road for at least 5 years. 
3. Unadulterated: CNG cannot easily be tampered with, unlike gasoline and diesel. Fuel that has been adulterated is unsafe for an automobile to use on public roads. In addition, CNG sales almost never entail fraud. 
4. Safer: It is best to use CNG if safety is your top priority. CNG is less flammable than fuel, making it safer in the event of an accident. Additionally, CNG-powered engines emit substantially less carbon dioxide, making these kits environmentally friendly. 

Cons:

1. The cost of maintenance and installation is expensive: Purchasing a CNG kit requires an initial outlay of funds. However, the expense of its installation and upkeep is quite high. 
2. Selective Availability of CNG Stations: CNG gas stations are not widely available in urban cities. It is even worse in remote rural areas. Therefore, experts recommend carrying a reserve of gasoline or diesel for a long trip.   
3. Increasing Insurance Premium: CNG-powered vehicles have exceptionally expensive maintenance and damage repair expenses, as was previously indicated. Additionally, this results in increased insurance rates. Your car's premium is computed based on the make, model, and age of the vehicle you own, and for CNG vehicles, the premium is typically greater.

Things to keep in mind while choosing a CNG Kit 

Before purchasing a CNG kit for yourself, you must determine the options and whether they are compatible with your vehicle or not. You can either opt for a company-fit CNG kit or purchase one from the market. However, there are considerable differences between the two of them and in the end whatever you choose should be compatible with your vehicle. 

As mentioned earlier, there are two types of CNG kits. We will have a look at them in detail: 

1. Venturi CNG Kit: This is an affordable option and is easy to install compared to others available options. It is suitable for any automotive, fuel injection or carburetor vehicle. You can also install it without using the electronic controller. However, you must keep in mind that this kit requires regular cleaning, and constant expert help. Therefore, it seems affordable in the short term but incurs significant costs in the long term. 
2. Sequential CNG Kit: This is a superior option according to the experts. The flow of CNG gas to the engine unit is managed by a separate electronic control unit due to which the mileage performance is improved. However, this kit is more expensive, and is difficult to install and only works with automobiles that support fuel injection. 

Hence, these are some of the things you must be aware of while purchasing a CNG kit for yourself. This will help you make better decision and ensure you purchase a kit suitable for your vehicle and financially a wise decision too: 

1. Pick a reliable company. 
2. To ensure the longevity of your CNG kit, invest in a reputable fitment facility. 
3. Verify the warranty's terms. 
4. Choose less paperwork.

Top CNG kit brands available in Market 

Given below is the list of top CNG kit brands that have also been approved by RTOs in India for use: 

1. Landi-Renzo 
2. SKN 
3. Tomasetto 
4. Bugatti 

1. Lovato Autogas 
2. BRC 
3. Longas 
4. Zavoli 
5. Bedni 

1. Unitax 
2. Tartarini

What is the cost of a CNG Kit?

The price of your CNG Kit will depend on the brand selected by you. A company fitted CNG kit will cost you between Rs.60,000 and Rs.70,000. On the other hand, an independent seller's sequential CNG kit will run you between Rs.40,000 and Rs.50,000. 

An open-loop CNG setup will cost between Rs.15,000 and Rs.20,000, including installation fees. A closed-loop is priced between Rs.22,000 and Rs.25,000. You must also keep in mind the other charges levied such as the maintenance fees, registration fees, etc. 

If you install an aftermarket CNG system, the manufacturer's warranty will no longer apply to you. Every company-installed CNG kit has an OEM guarantee and is hence significantly more expensive.  

A car with a CNG installation has a hefty insurance deductible. Based on a vehicle’s brand and model, the premium goes up by 10%. You should expect to pay between Rs.1,200 and Rs.1,500. Remember that a CNG kit's cost may change depending on your location and the brand and model of your vehicle.