Tata Motors has unveiled India’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered bus at an event in Kerala. The event was attended by Minister of MoPNG (Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas) Dharmendra Pradhan and Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan. Previously, Tata Motors had showcased their LNG technology on the Tata PRIMA Truck, at the 2014 Auto Expo.
Compared to buses powered by conventional fuels the Tata Motors LNG powered Tata LPO1613 bus, is lighter in weight and has enhanced levels of payload. The gas power will not only help in decreasing emissions for a cleaner environment, but will also ensure better fuel efficiency, due to high energy density of LNG. In a single filling these buses are claimed to provide a range more than 700km. LPG powered vehicles also ensure better Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) characteristics for passenger comfort.
The Government of India plans to move towards a gas-based economy due to an increase in demand for LNG and from the power, fertilizer and automotive sectors. Kerala will be the first state to explore trial run of LNG-driven technology. Tata Motors has introduced Natural gas vehicles (CNG) in the country, with a fleet of buses running in various parts of the country.
As compared to HSD (High Speed Diesel), LNG is relatively cheaper that in turn lowers the operating cost of vehicles, further enhancing the efficiency of operators. As per the official folks High energy density and liquid form allows LNG to be stored in smaller size cylinders with a packaging that’s similar to diesel fuel. LNG is also a cleaner fuel and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 30% with respect to conventional liquid fuels. LNG system operates at lower pressure and also evaporates quickly, given that it is lighter than air and hence evaporates extremely quickly under atmospheric pressure and temperature, hence safer. LNG will also help reduce the dependence on expensive crude oil.
On the occasion, Ravi Pisharody, Executive Director – Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors said that Tata Motors is proud to showcase the country’s first LNG bus; their gas-fueled people mover. As one of the country’s largest bus manufacturers, the Tata LNG bus is based on the Tata Motors’ understanding of the various transport authorities for public transport, creating a win-win situation for all stakeholders – for clean, safe, affordable and comfortable commuting. With LNG, They are not only Futuready, but are extending that capability towards the energy security of the nation.”