Tata Motors plans to discontinue its current small diesel engine used in models like the Altroz and Nexon due to its inability to meet future emission standards. To replace this engine, Tata is considering its twin-cylinder CNG technology as a viable alternative. CNG offers similar advantages to diesel in terms of low running costs, while also being cheaper and emitting lower levels of pollutants.
Additionally, adopting CNG would help Tata Motors improve its overall Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) score. In regions like Delhi-NCR, where there is a 10-year restriction on diesel cars, CNG is likely to be a preferred choice among consumers. Tata Motors’ Managing Director, Shailesh Chandra, has stated that the company intends to introduce CNG variants in segments where diesel engines are currently offered.
While the Punch has already been announced to receive Tata’s iCNG technology, it is expected that the Nexon will also see CNG variants in the future. However, Tata has confirmed that the Harrier and Safari models will continue to use the 2.0-litre diesel engine, with no plans to introduce CNG options in this segment. Both SUVs will soon have the option of a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.