Why CNG Cars Are Gaining Massive Popularity : While EVs represent the long-term eco-friendly future, CNG vehicles are emerging as the preferred alternative for many car buyers in the interim offering a balance of affordability and lower carbon emissions, as long as internal combustion engines remain relevant.
Why CNG Cars Are Gaining Massive Popularity in India
With rising fuel prices and an increasingly stringent stance against diesel vehicles especially in metro cities CNG cars are rapidly gaining traction among Indian consumers. Many buyers are now choosing CNG-powered vehicles over traditional petrol options, driven by cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations. According to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), CNG vehicles accounted for 19.5% of total car sales in FY2025, a significant leap from just 6.3% in FY2020 indicating a threefold increase in market share over five years.
Also read : Tata Cars June 2025 Offers: Save Up to ₹1.4 Lakh on Select Models
Meanwhile, petrol car sales have dropped from 76.3% to 57.7% during the same period. Diesel vehicles, already in decline by FY2020, remained stagnant at around 17–19% market share following the BS6 transition. Looking ahead, FY2026 is poised to be a milestone year for CNG cars, with sales expected to cross the 1 million mark reflecting an estimated 20% growth over FY2025, which saw 8.39 lakh units sold.
The surging demand for CNG vehicles has not gone unnoticed by automakers. Leading mass-market brands like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and Hyundai are actively expanding their CNG portfolios in response to shifting consumer preferences. Between FY2021 and FY2025, the number of CNG models available in the Indian market more than doubled from 11 to 25.
Also read : Mahindra BE Rall-E : Production-Ready Version Spied Testing in India Ahead of 2026 Launch
Manufacturers are also addressing traditional drawbacks of CNG vehicles. Tata Motors and Hyundai, for instance, have introduced dual-cylinder layouts to free up boot space, enhancing practicality. On the infrastructure front, the Indian government is supporting this transition by aggressively expanding the CNG network. It aims to increase the number of CNG filling stations from 7,400 to 17,500 by 2030 making cleaner fuel more accessible nationwide.
Top 10 Key Features of CNG Cars in India
| # | Feature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Low Running Cost | CNG is much cheaper than petrol or diesel, making it cost-efficient for daily use. |
| 2 | Eco-Friendly Fuel | CNG cars emit fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases than traditional fuels. |
| 3 | Wider Model Options | Manufacturers like Maruti, Tata, and Hyundai now offer a diverse CNG lineup. |
| 4 | Better Boot Space | Dual-cylinder layout helps optimize space in newer CNG models. |
| 5 | Government Push | India plans to increase CNG stations from 7,400 to 17,500 by 2030. |
| 6 | Dual-Fuel Capability | Most CNG cars can also run on petrol, offering longer range and convenience. |
| 7 | Lower Emissions | CNG produces less CO2, NOx, and particulate matter than diesel and petrol. |
| 8 | Lower Maintenance | CNG burns cleaner, reducing engine wear and extending maintenance intervals. |
| 9 | Growing Market Share | CNG cars now account for over 19.5% of total car sales in FY2025. |
| 10 | Tax Benefits | Some states offer lower taxes and registration fees on CNG vehicles. |
Top 10 FAQs About CNG Cars in India
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Why are CNG cars becoming more popular in India? | Due to rising fuel costs, lower running expenses, and environmental benefits. |
| 2 | Which company offers the widest CNG car range? | Maruti Suzuki, with over 13 models offering CNG variants. |
| 3 | Are CNG cars more affordable to run than petrol or diesel cars? | Yes, CNG cars generally have lower running costs compared to petrol or diesel models. |
| 4 | Do CNG cars have less boot space? | Some do, but brands like Tata and Hyundai use dual-cylinder layouts to improve space. |
| 5 | Is CNG infrastructure improving in India? | Yes, the government aims to expand CNG stations from 7,400 to 17,500 by 2030. |
| 6 | Which Tata models come with a CNG option? | Tiago, Tigor, Punch, Altroz, and Nexon currently offer CNG variants. |
| 7 | How much has the CNG car market grown in recent years? | From 6.3% in FY2020 to 19.5% in FY2025—a more than threefold increase. |
| 8 | Are CNG cars suitable for long-distance travel? | Yes, but availability of CNG stations en route should be considered. |
| 9 | Does Hyundai offer CNG cars? | Yes, the Grand i10 Nios, Aura, and Exter come with CNG options. |
| 10 | What’s the future of CNG cars in India? | Strong growth is expected, with FY2026 projected to cross 1 million units in sales. |