India Plans to Shift a Third of Heavy Trucks to LNG in 5-7 Years

Oil Ministry Pushes for LNG Adoption in Heavy-Duty Trucks

The Indian government has unveiled a major plan. It aims to convert one-third of the country's long-haul heavy-duty trucks to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG). This transition is planned to be completed in the next 5-7 years. The move is part of the nation's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation.

Key Steps to Stabilize LNG Prices

To make LNG adoption viable, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has proposed stabilising its prices. The ministry plans to allocate 0.5 million metric standard cubic meters per day (mmscmd) of domestic gas for the next three years. This allocation is expected to support 50,000 trucks, ensuring a steady supply of LNG at predictable prices.

Promoting LNG Infrastructure and Vehicles

To encourage the use of LNG in the transport sector, the government is taking proactive measures:

• Establishing LNG Dispensing Stations: State-run oil companies have been instructed to set up 49 LNG dispensing stations across key routes.
• Incentives for Conversion: Oil marketing companies might provide incentives to fleet owners to convert diesel trucks to LNG-powered vehicles.
• Bio-LNG Plants: Mini liquefaction plants are envisioned for the conversion of biogas into bio-LNG, further increasing LNG accessibility in off-grid locations.

Delhi-Mumbai Expressway Pilot Project

As part of this program, the government can even develop the Delhi-Mumbai expressway as an LNG highway. In addition, LNG-powered heavy-duty vehicles may be exempted from toll taxes on this corridor. This exemption will reduce operational costs and drive faster adoption of LNG trucks.

Environmental Benefits from the Adoption of LNG

Compared to diesel, LNG emits 24% less. India's medium and heavy commercial vehicle segment consumes almost 40% of the country's total diesel. The diversion of a chunk of this segment to LNG would cut down massive emissions of green gases and lessen reliance on fossil fuels.

Addressing India’s Truck Fleet and Fuel Consumption

As of March 31, 2020, India had 5.8 million trucks and lorries, along with 1.6 million multi-axle articulated vehicles. With such a vast fleet, transitioning to LNG could have a transformative impact on the country’s transport sector and environment.

This ambitious plan highlights India’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable transportation. By implementing these measures, the country aims to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and lead the way toward a greener future.

Follow us for Latest Truck Industry Updates -

☞ Facebook - https://bit.ly/TruckFB

☞  Instagram - https://bit.ly/TruckInsta

☞ YouTube - https://bit.ly/TruckYT