The cost efficiency of the car, a major factor in the decision to purchase cars for many people, influences car choices in the best way. While fuel type can be used as an extra variable, the choices are broader in the market today. Today the transition towards sustainable fuels is faster than ever, and the market has a variety of options, including petrol. Electricity etc. Entering the world of fuel selection, CNG and petrol cars show distinct pros.
What is a CNG car?
A CNG car operates on compressed natural gas, a cleaner and more environmentally friendly fuel alternative. This eco-conscious desire indulging in cleaner air. The fuel is stored in high-pressure containers, and while it’s eco-friendly, the availability of CNG stations might change. While the 1st recorded use of CNG in vehicles is traced back to 1901, in St. Louis, Missouri, the utilisation of natural gas as a fuel was adopted broadly in the 1930s. CNG vehicles are becoming popular due to issues about the environment.
What is a Petrol Car?
Petrol cars, filled with gasoline, have been the conventional desire for decades. Instead of their widespread availability at fuel stations, petrol vehicles emit larger emissions as compared to CNG cars. However, they often give excellent performance and power output. Using the spark-ignited internal combustion engine and the development in technology over the years, petrol cars are a great deal for your buck whenever it comes to an entire score.
CNG Car vs. Petrol Car: Which is the Best?
Selecting from CNG and petrol cars boils down to many factors, including environmental issues, cost-friendliness, and accessibility of fuel stations. We are here to support you by showcasing you with a few aspects to attain which one is better for you and, up to what extent? Analysing these aspects ensures you pick the best-suited option aligning with your preferences and driving needs.
CNG vs Petrol: Mileage
- CNG’s Higher Mileage: CNG vehicles generally give superior mileage, i.e., the pocket-friendlyness of CNG as a fuel source.
- Petrol’s Lower Mileage: Petrol cars may exhibit slightly lower mileage compared to CNG vehicles and have long-term impacts on fuel expenses.
- AutoCar India, CNG offers approx. 1.5 times better fuel efficiency.
- Justification for Extra Investment: The extra investment in a CNG variant with a monthly running of approx. 1,500 km, ensuring economic viability.
CNG vs. Petrol Car: Engine Life
- CNG’s Cleaner Combustion: Cleaner combustion in CNG engines results in an extended engine life by minimising wear and tear.
- Lie about CNG: There’s a misunderstanding surrounding CNG cars that the fuel minimises engine life, although proof suggests otherwise.
CNG Car vs. Petrol Car: Maintenance
- Petrol cars seem to have more conventional servicing needs, concentrating on engine performance and fuel systems.
CNG vs. Petrol Car: Cost
- CNG cars typically have pocket-friendly fuel prices per km compared to petrol.
- Petrol cars might cause higher prices due to the relatively expensive nature of petrol.
CNG vs. Petrol Car: Boot Space
- The boot space of both the petrol and CNG versions is almost the same.
- Usually petrol cars take up the lead when a CNG tank takes up more trunk space.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Petrol Cars
Advantages of Petrol Cars:
- Lower Initial Cost: Low cost compared to CNG and diesel cars.
- Comfortable Drive: Low NVH levels ensure a comfortable driving experience.
- Performance: Deliver great low-end performance.
- Lower Maintenance: Generally incur lower maintenance expenses.
- Wide Availability: Petrol cars are privileged from the availability of fuel stations, ensuring easy refuelling across locations.
- Higher Performance: Known for offering robust performance, petrol engines provide better acceleration and power compared to other fuel types.
Disadvantages of Petrol Cars:
- Higher Emissions: Petrol engines emit higher levels of pollutants, often criticised by activists and even policymakers. A cap of 15 years is put on the age of cars while registering in India.
- Higher running costs: expensive due to higher fuel prices.
- Performance: High-end performance instead of diesel engines.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CNG Cars
Advantages of CNG Cars:
- Cost-effective: low cost because of cheaper CNG fuel compared to petrol and diesel.
- High Fuel Economy: CNG cars give an excellent fuel economy.
- Environmentally Friendly: Emit less carbon emissions, converting them eco-friendly.
- Fuel Flexibility: Give the option to use both CNG and petrol fuels.
- Environmentally Friendly: CNG cars generally minimise carbon emissions.
- Cost-effective Fuel: CNG is quite low in cost, contributing to lower running costs for CNG vehicle owners.
Disadvantages of CNG Cars:
- Performance Lag: Lower functionality and performance than petrol and diesel cars.
- Limited Range: A smaller CNG tank affects full-tank driving range.
- Boot Space Constraint: The CNG cylinder reserves boot space.
- Reduced Power Output: CNG engines may give little lower power compared to petrol engines.
Conclusion
The long-term implications show CNG cars as a better alternative, and the technology is finally letting them catch up in terms of power. But if fuel availability is your concern, particularly when you are in a tier-three city or a town, petrol cars are always the winner.
Assess your priorities and driving habits to determine the most suitable option that aligns with your needs. Happy Buying!