Before converting your car to CNG, it is important to understand both the advantages and disadvantages, so you can make an informed decision.
Advantages of CNG vehicles:
1. Converting to CNG can reduce your monthly fuel expenses by over 30%. The initial cost of conversion can be offset over time.
2. CNG, as a clean fuel, increases your car’s maintenance intervals and extends the engine’s lifespan.
3. The exhaust system and catalytic converter will last longer due to CNG’s efficient burn rate.
4. Factory-fitted CNG engines tend to offer better performance compared to those converted from other fuel types (this may not apply to converted engines).
5. CNG vehicles are environmentally friendly and contribute to reducing pollution.
6. CNG has a higher ignition temperature, making it safer and less prone to fires or explosions.
Disadvantages of CNG vehicles:
1. CNG-converted vehicles may experience reduced engine power due to the lower energy content of CNG, though factory-fitted CNG vehicles do not face this issue.
2. A CNG conversion requires sacrificing some trunk space to accommodate the CNG tank.
3. The additional weight of the CNG tank could impact your car’s suspension.
4. While CNG is growing in popularity in Nigeria, refueling infrastructure is still limited, which may require you to travel longer distances to refuel.
5. The initial cost of converting to CNG can be high, though ongoing initiatives aim to lower these costs and improve convenience.
6. CNG-converted vehicles may require more specialized maintenance due to the different fueling system.