With fuel pumps almost running dry, the end of the nationwide trucker’s strike has come as a much-needed respite. However, if there’s one thing that the recent turn of events has shown, it is the fact that conventional fuel options like petrol and diesel continue to be the driving force behind the majority of Indian automobiles, despite rising fuel prices and environmental concerns. But those who have already made the switch to alternative fuel options know that beyond the conventional options is a world that’s cleaner, greener, cheaper, and more efficient. If you too are planning to go beyond petrol and diesel, here are some viable alternative fuel options that you can opt for.
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Compressed Natural Gas or CNG is a gas that acts as a fuel when compressed under pressure. Mainly composed of methane, CNG has been one of the most widely used alternative fuel options in India. CNG is an odourless, colourless, and non-corrosive element that releases energy when combusted with air.
Ever since its inception in the early 2000s, CNG as an alternative fuel option has undergone quite an evolution. From being available as a retrofit fuel option to becoming an OEM-offered alternative, CNG has come a long way. In fact, with the development of CNG technology, the fuel now powers a majority of private, public, and commercial automobiles. Moreover, with the growing adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel option, carmakers in India have started offering popular models with CNG onboard.
Pros of CNG
The biggest reason behind CNG’s growth as an alternative fuel option is its affordability. When compared to petrol, CNG prices are 20-25% cheaper, making it the preferred choice for millions looking to save themselves from ever-increasing fuel prices. For example, the fuel price in Delhi is about Rs. 96/l whereas, the price of CNG in Delhi is about Rs. 76/kg.
Another reason that makes CNG a good alternative is the fact that it returns better mileage when compared to conventional fuel options like petrol and diesel. This makes CNG altogether more attractive, especially for those who have a higher running. For example, the maximum mileage offered by a diesel car today stands at 23 to 24 km/l, while for petrol this figure is between 26 to 27 km/l. For CNG on the other hand, the mileage can go as high as 35.6 km/kg.
Another aspect that makes CNG a lucrative fuel alternative is the fact that it is a cleaner and greener fuel option when compared to traditional fossil fuels like petrol and diesel. Thanks to its low-emission nature, CNG is the go-to fuel alternative for public transport. Moreover, since CNG does not emit particulate matter, and does not leave much residue, it also increases the engine lifespan.
Cons of CNG
The biggest disadvantage when it comes to adopting CNG as an alternative fuel option comes from the fact that the CNG is stored in high-pressure cylinders that take up a substantial amount of boot space, which hampers the luggage-carrying capacity of the car.
Another reason that deters several users from making the switch to CNG is due to the reason that CNG produces less power when compared to petrol and diesel, thereby reducing the vehicle’s power output.
Another factor that works against the adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel option is the scarcity of CNG filling stations across the nation, especially in rural and remote areas.
Electricity (EVs)
Electricity as an alternative fuel option is a lucrative switch that is the future of mobility across the world. Powering Electric Vehicles across the globe, electricity as a fuel source is one of the most sustainable options there can be. Electric Vehicles or EVs go beyond the use of petrol and diesel and are run with the help of Lithium-Ion batteries that power one or more electric motors. These batteries can be charged at home using standard 240-volt house plugs or via charging stations. As an alternative fuel option, EVs are known to offer better performance than internal combustion engines.
Even though EVs are not new to the Indian market, the recent growth of EVs in India can be credited to aggressive government policies that are focused on mass EV adoption through subsidies, awareness campaigns, and incentives. In fact, EV adoption in India is one of the most fundamental goals of the government that has resulted in widespread EV adoption in both public, private, and commercial sectors.
Pros of Electric Vehicles
Well, the biggest advantage of owning an EV is its high efficiency. Electricity as a fuel is one of the most energy-efficient fuel sources. Lithium-ion batteries onboard EVs convert as much as 50-60% of energy into vehicular movement, as compared to 17-21% of energy that is converted to movement by conventional fuel engines. Moreover, since EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, electricity is also the cleanest fuel alternative there is.
Another thing that makes EVs attractive is the fact that they can offer maximum torque and power right from the go. This translates to a better, smoother, and peppier driving experience. This makes EVs fun to drive. Also when compared to internal combustion engines, EVs are easier to maintain due to fewer moving parts onboard.
Last but not least, another thing that makes EVs a go-to option is the wide availability of electricity at cheaper rates when compared to petrol and diesel. This translates to a substantially lower running cost. Moreover, since EVs don’t have an engine to maintain, one can also save on consumables and engine maintenance and service costs.
Cons of EVs
The biggest deterrent to EV adoption today is the high price of EVs in India. Even in the face of government subsidies, the upfront purchase cost of EVs is fairly higher than their petrol and diesel counterparts, making it difficult for consumers to make the switch.
Another reason that deters EV adoption in India is the lack of charging infrastructure which is the key to mass EV adoption anywhere in the world. Even though the government is constantly pushing for better infrastructure, a widespread switch requires mass charging stations to be opened up, especially in rural and remote areas.
Last but not least, EVs are also known to offer a limited range which when coupled with a lack of charging infrastructure deters users from making the switch, especially considering long road trips and highway runs.
The Future Ahead
Aligned with the goal of adopting sustainable and renewable energy resources to power automobiles, Flex Fuel is the most promising fuel alternative of the near future. Flex-fuel combines regular petrol with either methanol or ethanol to produce any combination of blended fuel raging from full-petrol to full-ethanol to everything that comes in between. Flex Fuel comes as a sustainable fuel option since Ethanol and Methanol are both sourced from food crops like corn and sugarcane. This makes using Flex Fuel a cheaper, cleaner, and greener alternative to fuel. Moreover, the use of Flex Fuel does not affect engine performance, thereby offering unaffected driving dynamics. With the government aiming to transition to Flex Fuel adoption by 2030, what lies ahead is something that will slowly unfold.
