CNG Vehicles Offer Major Savings and Environmental Advantages, Experts Call for More Support and Infrastructure
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Automobile experts have highlighted significant savings in maintenance and running costs for vehicles powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), claiming up to 70% lower expenses compared to those using Premium Motor Spirit (petrol). In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, they emphasized that converting to CNG not only boosts fuel efficiency but also enhances engine performance, extends vehicle longevity, and is environmentally friendly. Mr. Bayero Farah, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), reiterated that CNG vehicles offer substantial financial benefits over petrol-powered cars. He emphasized that using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in vehicles leads to extended service life, improved engine performance, and emissions that align closely with international standards. He noted that CNG prices are more stable than those of petrol and diesel, as they are less influenced by exchange rates and production issues. However, he pointed out that the main drawback is the currently high initial cost of converting vehicles to CNG.
Mr. Bayero Farah stated that vehicles using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) benefit from extended service life, enhanced engine performance, and emissions that are nearly in line with international standards. He explained that CNG prices are expected to remain stable over time, as they are not as affected by exchange rates and production challenges as petrol and diesel. However, he noted that the primary drawback is the currently high initial conversion cost for vehicles.
Mr. Bayero Farah, highlighted the importance of addressing the availability of gas and the technical expertise required for the repair and maintenance of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles. He noted that the current administration and NITT are actively seeking solutions to these challenges.
As part of the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), NITT is working to enhance technical manpower and establish conversion facilities across the country. These facilities will provide services for conversion, repairs, and maintenance, while also raising awareness about the benefits and implications of using CNG. The initiative aims to integrate relevant stakeholders within the CNG value chain.
Mr. Oseni Suleiman, National President of the Amalgamated Union of Motor Mechanics and Technicians, echoed these sentiments, stating that CNG vehicles offer significantly lower maintenance costs compared to petrol-powered cars. He explained that CNG burns more cleanly, which reduces wear and tear on engine components and leads to lower emissions compared to petrol and diesel.
Suleiman emphasized that CNG is not only more economical but also cleaner, as it burns slowly and efficiently, making it a cost-effective alternative to petrol. He expressed concerns about the current availability of CNG refill stations in Nigeria, stating that it is quite limited. He noted that petrol and diesel stations are more widespread, even if those fuels are sometimes scarce.
Suleiman also pointed out issues with petrol quality, citing frequent adulteration that has diminished its performance, leading to faster emissions and reduced power. In contrast, he highlighted the safety advantages of CNG, noting that its storage systems undergo rigorous safety testing and are engineered to withstand various conditions, making CNG a safer option in the event of a spill.
Mr. Oseni Suleiman emphasized that the gaseous nature of CNG allows it to disperse quickly, significantly reducing the risk of fire and explosion. He stressed the importance of training more Nigerian artisans in converting petrol-powered vehicles to run on CNG, to enhance the transition to this safer and more efficient fuel option.
Mr. Oseni Suleiman announced that the Amalgamated Union of Motor Mechanics and Technicians (AUOMMATON) has begun efforts to train artisans in converting petrol vehicles to CNG and called for government support in this initiative.
Mr. Julius David, CEO of Prince Autos in Abuja, also shared that many of his customers are increasingly interested in CNG vehicles, recognizing their advantages. He pointed out that the unpredictability of the petrol market often results in scarcity and high prices, which elevate transport costs and make life more challenging for Nigerians.
David noted that CNG serves as a viable alternative, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants than petrol and diesel. Additionally, he highlighted that CNG is generally cheaper and more abundant, while CNG vehicles require less maintenance compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts.
Several CNG vehicle owners shared their experiences with the News Agency of Nigeria, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and ease of maintenance of their cars.
Mr. Joseph Oluebube mentioned that his factory-fitted CNG vehicle initially posed challenges, particularly regarding public access due to the trunk cylinder. However, he now enjoys significant savings, noting that a N4000 fill lasts him over a week for his daily commute from Kubwa to Garki, approximately 34 kilometers.
Conversely, some users expressed concerns about the high conversion costs, ranging from N700,000 to N1 million, urging the government to establish more conversion centers and CNG filling stations throughout the country to facilitate broader adoption.
Motorists have urged the government to provide incentives for using CNG vehicles to encourage more Nigerians to embrace this development. They believe that such support could facilitate a wider adoption of CNG technology across the country.
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