Tata Altroz CNG: Is it the best of both worlds?

Tata Altroz CNG: Is it the best of both worlds?

In theory, CNG cars offer the best of both worlds. You get lower running costs compared to normal petrol and diesel cars and they are low on emissions as well, making them kinder to the environment. There has always been a few compromises with CNG cars in general, boot space and drivability, which discouraged potential buyers and this is where Tata Altroz iCNG steps in.

Tata Altroz iCNG tanks, boot space and spare tyre

The Altroz iCNG’s USP is the fact that you get lower running costs without having to sacrifice boot space entirely. Tata Motors has used an innovative twin-cylinder setup for the CNG tanks that are placed under the boot floor, where you would normally find the spare wheel. This packaging liberates 210 litres of boot space, which, though down on the standard Altroz’s 345-litre boot, is still better than nothing at all.

The positioning of the tanks raises another question: what about the spare wheel? Tata has thought of that too. The iCNG gets a smaller size spare that is mounted underneath the car, as on SUVs. The spare can be released by loosening a bolt inside the boot, just ahead of the CNG tanks. The tyre drops down on a cord and is unhooked easily enough, and to put it back, you hook it up again and wind it the other way. And that is not all, Tata also provides the Altroz iCNG with a puncture repair kit. 

Safety has also been a cause for concern in CNG cars thus far as the tanks are placed in close proximity to the passenger compartment, so in case of a crash or a leak, it can be dangerous. To alleviate these concerns, the Altroz gets a fire extinguisher under the driver’s seat and a system that automatically switches to petrol if a leak is detected. Tata also claims it has used “advanced materials” in the CNG kit.

Furthermore, there is a micro switch in the fuel filler area, which shuts off the car during refuelling. It also gets thermal incident protection that cuts off CNG supply to the engine and releases the gas into the atmosphere if a fire is detected. The Altroz’s CNG tanks also sit in a cradle, which prevents it from entering the passenger compartment in the event of a crash.

However, one thing you will still have to contend with is the CNG infrastructure in our country (or the lack thereof), and the long queues for fill-ups.