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5 misconceptions about CNG cars in Nigeria

By Musa Adekunle

16 October 2024   |   11:56 am

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With the increasing cost of petrol, many Nigerians are looking for more affordable alternatives to fuel their cars. One option that's gaining traction is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). While CNG offers a cleaner and more pocket-friendly alternative, there are still many misunderstandings about it. Let’s clear up some of the confusion: 1. Are CNG cars…

With the increasing cost of petrol, many Nigerians are looking for more affordable alternatives to fuel their cars. One option that’s gaining traction is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

While CNG offers a cleaner and more pocket-friendly alternative, there are still many misunderstandings about it.

Let’s clear up some of the confusion:

1. Are CNG cars prone to fire hazards?
A lot of people assume that CNG cars are ticking time bombs, but the reverse is true. CNG has a higher ignition temperature than petrol, meaning it’s less likely to catch fire. While petrol can ignite at 455°C, CNG only sparks at 700°C. CNG tanks also undergo rigorous safety checks, making them even more secure than traditional petrol tanks.READ ALSO: SON adopts 88 global standards for CNG products in transport sector
2. Do CNG cars wear out faster?
Some folks believe CNG cars aren’t built to last, but that’s not the case. CNG is non-corrosive and burns cleaner, helping the engine last longer with fewer repairs. In fact, because it doesn’t leave behind damaging deposits, it reduces the frequency of oil changes and engine wear, making it a solid choice for long-term vehicle health.

3. Is CNG too expensive to use?
It’s easy to think that CNG is costly just because CNG cars tend to have a higher price tag upfront. However, CNG itself is cheaper than petrol. Over time, the money saved on fuel far outweighs the initial purchase cost, making CNG a budget-friendly option in the long run.

4. Does CNG harm the environment?
CNG actually does the environment a favour. Compared to petrol and diesel, it emits far fewer pollutants. CNG vehicles produce 25-30% less carbon dioxide, and they also generate lower levels of harmful gases like nitrogen oxides. This means fewer toxins in the air, which leads to better air quality and less environmental damage.

5. Can CNG cars handle long journeys?
People often believe that CNG cars aren’t fit for long-distance trips. While CNG vehicles might have a shorter range than petrol cars, manufacturers are addressing this with larger tanks or dual-fuel systems, allowing for longer journeys. Plus, with more CNG filling stations opening up across the country, refuelling is becoming more convenient.

At the end of the day, CNG cars are proving to be a smart, safer, and more economical option for Nigerians looking to save on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint