The skyrocketing fuel prices in India over the past decade have compelled individuals to seek viable alternatives to petrol. As a result, an increasing number of people have turned to compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric cars. Unsurprisingly, many states in India continue to grapple with petrol prices breaching the Rs 100 mark. In response to this, residents of the Delhi National Capital Region are opting to install aftermarket CNG kits in their vehicles to curtail their running costs. Leading manufacturers such as Maruti, Hyundai, and Tata have even introduced company-fitted CNG kits, evincing the widespread interest in enhancing fuel efficiency.
In an intriguing video shared by Zuby USTAD on his YouTube channel, we witness the installation of an aftermarket CNG kit in a Mercedes-Benz C-Class luxury sedan. With a V6 engine, this C230 sedan benefits from a range of components that augment its overall performance. These components include a gas refilling valve, reducer, pressure gauge, ECU for the recently integrated CNG system, and high-pressure pipes to facilitate gas transportation.
While the incorporation of a CNG system necessitates the allocation of significant boot space for the gas cylinder, there remains ample room for luggage storage. The vlogger showcases this feature in the video, highlighting the noticeable increase in fuel efficiency brought about by the CNG conversion. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class retains its remarkable acceleration without compromising on efficiency, contrary to the noticeable performance drop typically associated with retrofitting CNG kits.
The vlogger documents his experience driving the vehicle post-conversion, underscoring the negligible difference in performance. Moreover, he draws attention to the convenience of a switch on the center console, allowing drivers to seamlessly transition between petrol and CNG modes. By doing so, the vlogger verifies the absence of errors or complications arising from the CNG installation.
One significant advantage of the CNG kit in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the remarkable improvement in fuel efficiency, with the car now achieving a fuel economy of 12-14 kmpl compared to its previous 5-6 kmpl when solely reliant on petrol. This video proves to be a valuable resource for those living in the Delhi NCR region, where individuals often purchase used luxury cars without fully considering long-term running and maintenance costs. However, it is essential to prioritize safety and opt for RTO-approved CNG kits to mitigate the risk of leaks or kit-related issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are fuel prices rising in India?
Fuel prices in India have been progressively increasing due to various factors, including global crude oil prices, taxes, and transportation costs.
Why are people opting for CNG kits in their cars?
With soaring fuel prices, many individuals are turning to CNG kits as a more cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative.
Can aftermarket CNG kits affect a car’s performance?
While retrofitting a CNG kit may occasionally result in a performance drop, advancements in technology have mitigated this issue, as showcased in the video.
Is it advisable to choose RTO-approved CNG kits?
Yes, it is highly recommended to opt for RTO-approved CNG kits to ensure compliance with safety standards and minimize the risk of leaks or related problems.