Carmakers Challenge CAQM's CNG Vehicle Ban

Carmakers and city gas distributors have raised objections to the Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM) push towards electric vehicles (EVs), particularly its plan to phase out compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. Industry calculations suggest that BS-VI CNG cars contribute a mere 0.0001% to Delhi-NCR's annual PM2.5 pollution. They contend that newer, compliant vehicles have a minimal impact on air quality compared to the proposed transition to EVs.

Manufacturers are calling for a technology-neutral approach, urging a comparison of full lifecycle emissions, including those from electricity generation and EV manufacturing. The Association of CGD Entities (ACE) has specifically challenged restrictions on new CNG light goods vehicles, questioning CAQM's emission factor calculations for these vehicles. ACE also warned of the potential impact on investment in the city gas distribution network.

Industry representatives are promoting alternatives like compressed biogas (CBG), a renewable fuel that can utilize existing gas infrastructure. They advocate for policies that consider a range of cleaner fuels, including ethanol and CNG, alongside battery-electric vehicles. The submissions emphasize the need for technology-neutral assessments before imposing restrictions on existing alternatives like CNG.