All You Should Know Before Switching Your Petrol Vehicle to CNG

One popular option since the removal of the petrol subsidy in Nigeria as many vehicle owners are looking for ways to reduce fuel costs is converting petrol-powered vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). 

CNG is seen as a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol. To encourage this switch, the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, launched the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) in August 2023.

The PCNGI aims to make the conversion process easier and more accessible for Nigerians. They have set up CNG conversion centres across the country and introduced the “Transport Fare Drop Programme” to help reduce commuting costs. 

Additionally, in October 2024, the federal government launched a new website that allows vehicle owners to convert their petrol-powered cars to CNG with a “pay-later” option. This means you can convert your vehicle now and pay for the conversion in affordable monthly installments.

As it goes, If you’re considering switching your vehicle to CNG, here are five important things to know before making the conversion:

Not all vehicles are suitable for conversion for CNG

While many petrol-powered vehicles can be converted to run on CNG, not all are ideal candidates. Passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, and some buses can usually make the switch. 

However, high-performance vehicles and older engines may face challenges. Generally, vehicles less than 10 years old with modern systems are better suited for CNG conversion. Turbocharged or high-powered engines, on the other hand, might not be compatible with CNG systems.

When converting a petrol car, key parts such as a storage cylinder, pressure regulator, CNG tank, and heating system are added to allow it to run on CNG. Diesel engines, however, work differently. They can only partially switch to CNG, running on a mix of diesel and CNG rather than solely on CNG.

Your vehicle’s age and condition matter

The age and condition of your car play a big role in determining whether it’s suitable for conversion. Cars in good condition and less than 10 years old are typically better suited for CNG conversion. 

Vehicles with engines that are near the end of their lifespan or those that already have mechanical issues may not handle the switch well.

Before converting, it’s essential to have a certified mechanic inspect your car to ensure it can handle the demands of a CNG system. This step can help avoid future problems and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly after conversion.

Consider emission standards

One of the benefits of CNG is that it produces fewer emissions compared to petrol, making it a more environmentally friendly fuel option. However, in Nigeria, your vehicle needs to meet specific emission standards before it can be converted. Older cars, which may not comply with these standards, could be ineligible for conversion.

It’s a good idea to consult with a CNG conversion specialist to confirm if your car meets the required emission regulations. This ensures that your vehicle qualifies for conversion and that you’re contributing to a cleaner environment.

Choose the right conversion kit

There are two main types of CNG conversion kits: Sequential and Venturi kits. Choosing the right one depends on your vehicle’s make, model, and engine type.

• Sequential kits are more advanced and inject CNG directly into the intake manifold. These kits are efficient and work best with newer vehicles that have sophisticated engine management systems.
• Venturi kits are simpler and generally more affordable. They are suitable for older vehicles with simpler engines but may not offer the same level of performance as sequential kits.

If you live in an urban area and have a modern vehicle with advanced electronics, a sequential kit may be the better choice. For those on a budget or with older cars, a Venturi kit can still do the job at a lower cost.

Use a certified conversion centre

Safety and efficiency are critical when converting your vehicle to CNG. It’s important to have the conversion done at a certified centre where trained technicians follow the necessary safety standards. Proper installation ensures your CNG system runs smoothly and reduces the risk of accidents.

Some CNG filling stations also serve as conversion centres, making it convenient to switch and fill up your vehicle in one location. Companies like NIPCO Plc, Bovas, Axxela, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited have partnered with the PCNGI to provide conversion services across Nigeria. 

Choosing a certified centre guarantees that your vehicle will be handled by professionals who adhere to industry standards.