Over 40% sedans now run on CNG; petrol loses share

Over 40 per cent of sedans sold in India now run on CNG as consumers prefer cleaner fuels, and use cars for business purposes, according to data collated by global data and analytics firm Jato Dynamics.

- SOHINI DAS

The data reveals that CNG adoption has gained traction steadily over the last few years, rising from a 10.8 per cent in 2021 to 41.5 per cent in year-to-date (YTD) 2024. Conversely, petrol has lost consumer preference, and its share fell sharply from 82 per cent in 2021 to 55.5 per cent YTD in 2024. Diesel too has lost its share from 6.5 per cent in 2021 to 1.1 per cent YTD 2024.

Ravi Bhatia, president and director, Jato Dynamics, said the share of taxis in sedans is quite high. "Almost 33 per cent of Dzire sales go into the taxi segment. Individuals with dual use (small businesses use CNG) also opt for this fuel type. The taxi use has also rubbed on the image in small ways for these brands," Bhatia explained.

Maruti has now positioned the fourth-generation Dzire into the personal use segment, while it retains the Dzire Tour as a taxi. The fourth generation Dzire also comes with a CNG powertrain to meet strong consumer preference for this fuel type.