Maruti Suzuki is planning to introduce CNG variants of its existing models in the Indian market. The company is expected to introduce CNG variants of Maruti Alto, Wagon R and SX4 this year that will be priced at 15-20 percent premium than the fossil fuel models. Maruti Suzuki remains committed to introduce more eco-friendly cars and looking at the growing market for alternative fuel models such variants will enable it to retain its 50 percent market share.
“It’s our answer to green technology that will also be most fuel-efficient auto fuel in India, blending the benefits of gasoline engine power at the cost of the CNG,” said IV Rao, managing executive officer (engineering) at Maruti Suzuki.
The new variants of MSIL models will feature factory fitted computer-controlled gas distribution kits that will be mated with petrol engines. The models will use i-GPI or intelligent gas port injection technology that has been developed in-house. It provides the driver an option to choose to switch between petrol or CNG option.
