Tata could take the lead in the CNG market with more firsts such as AMT and turbo-petrol options.

 

In India, the number of CNG-powered passenger cars is expected to grow dramatically in the coming months. Tata has only recently entered the race with the introduction of CNG variants for the Tiago and Tigor. Despite its late entry, it has made a significant impact by being the first to offer cleaner fuel options across the board, particularly in the top variant.

Tata can capitalise on this trend by being the first to offer a variety of models with factory-installed CNG kits. Among the projects being actively pursued by the automaker are:

CNG-Automatic (AMT)

For the longest time, an automatic transmission has been the most elusive choice among CNG cars. Despite the fact that the CNG kit is mated to the same petrol engine that will be available with a manual or an AMT transmission, the CNG is always limited to a manual shifter. We've talked about some of the challenges that come with offering an automatic with a CNG powertrain, but Tata could be the first to take the plunge.

A CNG automatic would cost significantly more than a CNG manual, which already costs around a lakh more than the corresponding petrol variant. Expect the AMT to cost an additional Rs 50,000 over the CNG-manual, but to remain competitive with the Tiago and Tigor's corresponding petrol-AMT variants.

Turbo-petrol engine with CNG

Many models in the mass market now have turbocharged petrol engines, particularly sub-compact SUVs, but none have a CNG option. Tata could try to change that by offering a CNG option for its best-seller, the Nexon, which is powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. Even if it was limited to a manual transmission, it is likely to be a popular alternative to the diesel variant. Other manufacturers like Skoda already offer CNG options with turbo-petrol engines in Europe, so it is proven to be technologically feasible.

Tata Punch CNG

Tata's newest model is the Punch micro-SUV, which sits below the Nexon in the lineup. It is a petrol-only offering, but there have already been inquiries about a CNG option in the future. Because it has the same 1.2-litre petrol engine as the Tiago, it is likely to get the alternative fuel option soon.

There has been no official word on the likely launch or timeline for any of these CNG products, so none are likely to arrive before 2023.