Everything is going to be cheaper! The new kit is here to increase the mileage of these cars! Is the price also cheaper?
Honda Cars India Limited (HCIL) has introduced retrofit CNG kits for the Amaze sedan and Elevate SUV. These vehicles, which come only with petrol engines, now offer the option of CNG conversion through government-approved kits. The aim is to boost sales by providing a low-cost fuel alternative. Here are the details.
With diesel engines in India becoming scarce, CNG is a viable alternative due to its low operating cost and low fuel cost. While some manufacturers offer factory-fitted CNG kits, Honda has opted for retrofit kits that are fitted at the dealer level. This approach is also being followed by Renault. Nissan is also considering it.
Unlike companies like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Hyundai that offer factory-fitted CNG options, Honda's retrofit kits are not listed on their official website. Pricing details are yet to be revealed. The kits will be available at select dealerships where trained personnel handle the fitting process.
The registration process for these vehicles involves first registering them as petrol vehicles and then updating them to petrol-CNG status. This makes the process a bit more complicated than factory-fitted setups. Documentation from the CNG kit provider may be required for warranty purposes.
The retrofit kits are currently available only for the Amaze and Elevate models, except for the City sedan. It is not clear whether existing car owners of these models can opt for the conversion or if it will be available only to new customers. There is also no information on how much mileage the kit will provide after installation.
Honda's decision to offer these retrofit kits reflects a growing trend among manufacturers to offer alternative fuel options without incurring the high development costs associated with factory-fitted setups. This strategy allows Honda to create a vehicle with lower fuel costs for the environmentally conscious customer.
This initiative highlights Honda's commitment to adapting to market needs and providing customers with flexible options to suit their preferences and budget constraints. As more consumers look for sustainable alternatives, this CNG kit is likely to become more popular in the Indian automotive industry.
Mileage is considered a very important factor among Indian customers. Indian customers prefer cars that give high mileage. While other companies are launching factory-fitted CNG cars to attract customers in this segment, Honda has taken this unique strategy. This will definitely attract its customers.