Opinion: How Tata has spearheaded technical innovations with CNG

Mention CNG and the first carmaker that comes to mind is Maruti Suzuki. It has steadily mainstreamed the fuel to the point where every model in its Arena lineup can now be optioned with a factory-fitted CNG kit. However, when the conversation shifts to innovation in this space, Tata Motors has arguably been the one pushing things further. And unlike some manufacturers that still largely position CNG around entry-level trims, Tata has extended it to higher variants as well, which are packed with features. The idea is simple: a CNG car shouldn’t have to feel like a compromise. With that context in place, here's a closer look at the key innovations it has brought to the table.

The shift began in May 2023 when Tata launched the Altroz CNG, debuting the brand's clever twin-cylinder setup neatly packaged under the boot floor, in the space typically reserved for the spare wheel. This layout freed up usable luggage space, one of the biggest pain points with conventional CNG cars. It even trickled down to the entry-level Tiago, as well as in higher-positioned offerings like the Punch and Nexon SUVs. The idea clearly struck a chord; Hyundai adopted a similar space-saving solution for models like the Exter and i10, while Maruti came up with an underbody-mounted CNG tank setup on the Victoris.

Tata didn't stop there as in February 2024, it launched CNG-AMT versions of the Tiago and Tigor; this option is also available on the Tiago NRG (cross-hatch version). Interestingly, even after two years since Tata proved that the convenience of an automatic gearbox can be had with CNG, no other carmaker has been able this yet. Another noteworthy detail is the single ECU managing both fuel systems, which allows these models to start directly in CNG mode itself, saving that little extra bit of petrol at startup. The new Punch even offers paddle shifters, should you want them.

In September 2024, Tata extended the twin-cylinder setup to the turbo-petrol Nexon, effectively introducing India's first turbocharged CNG car. As for output, the standard Nexon delivers 120hp, while the CNG iteration is down 20hp, with peak torque holding steady at 170Nm. Tata offers the powertrain from the entry-level Smart variant right up to the top-spec Fearless+ PS, including the latter's Red Dark edition. In our experience with the Nexon CNG, we observed that the SUV provides the expected benefit of lower running costs, but crucially, it delivers in terms of its drivability and performance.

All five Tata models currently offered with a CNG setup fall under the four-metre bracket. Now, the focus appears to be shifting upward, with Tata evaluating the feasibility of bringing the fuel-type to above-four-metre vehicles. Nothing is official yet, but the Curvv and the Sierra could be considered for the same. Meanwhile, Maruti Suzuki and Toyota already have CNG models in this space, including the Grand Vitara and Hyryder, respectively, so a well-timed move could help Tata close that gap. Practical innovations are always welcome, and we eagerly await what Tata engineers are cooking.