LNG trucks in India in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

India is witnessing a significant shift towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation options, with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) trucks emerging as a promising alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles. LNG trucks are slowly and steadily making their way in the Indian Market.

These trucks are long haul vehicles as they cover a long distance of 600-1000 Km in a single fill. This provides LNG trucks an edge over other trucks available in the market. According to research by Emkay Research, there will be around 50,000 LNG trucks in India by 2030. Here's an in-depth look at LNG trucks in India:

Benefits of LNG Trucks

Environmental Benefits: LNG trucks offer near-zero tailpipe emissions, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30% compared to diesel trucks. This will help reduce pollution and reduce India's dependence on fossil fuels.

Economic Benefits: LNG trucks provide a cost-effective alternative to diesel, with lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance expenses. These trucks will be very helpful in the trasnport and construction business and will also reduce harmful emissions.

LNG Trucks in India 2024

Blue Energy 5528 4x2: BE 5528 truck was introduced in November 2022 from Blue Energy. This LNG truck has successfully reduced the carbon footprints in the steel and cement sectors. The truck is powered by 280 HP and 1000 Nm of torque making it the most powerful LNG truck in India. The BE5528 gets 990l fuel which has the capability to cover 1400 Km in single fill. The interior of the truck is spacious and comfortable for long rides.

AVTR 1922: The AVTR 1922 is India’s first LNG-powered long haulage truck with BSVI stage II emission standards. The LNG truck from Ashok Leyland is built on AVTR platform which is India’s first and only modular truck platform. The truck is powered by a 6-cyclinder H-series engine. The truck has helped reduce emissions and is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional trucks.

Challenges and Opportunities

Infrastructure Expansion: Widespread adoption of LNG trucks requires a significant expansion of LNG fueling infrastructure. Although the government is working towards building infrastructure for LNG trucks but more work needs to be done which will help the rise of LNG trucks.

Cost and Affordability: Higher upfront costs of LNG trucks compared to diesel trucks pose a challenge for widespread adoption.

LNG Fueling Stations: LNG trucks are still a new phenomenon in the Indian commercial vehicle industry. There are existing LNG terminals at Dahej, Hazira, and Mundra in Gujrat. Other terminals are at Dhabol in Maharashtra, Kochi in Kerala, and Ennore in Tamil Nadu. Still more LNG fuel stations need to come up as the demand for LNG trucks will rise in future.

Future Outlook

Growing Demand: Increasing environmental concerns and government support are expected to drive demand for LNG trucks in India. There are few companies that manufacture LNG trucks but more companies will come up in the future as LNG trucks have many more advantages over traditional trucks.

Technological Advancements: New technology is emerging and Improving LNG truck technology and infrastructure will enhance efficiency and affordability. With the advancement of technology, LNG trucks will become more affordable.

Conclusion

India is already battling the problem of pollution and has set a target for zero emissions by 2070. To achieve these targets and make our environment cleaner it is essential to focus on LNG trucks. Proper infrastructure along with support from Government will help LNG trucks to grow their presence in India. As India continues to transition towards cleaner transportation options, LNG trucks are poised to play a significant role in reducing emissions and promoting sustainable logistics.