Toyota Launches First Ever CNG MPV in India
Market Developments
Source: NGV Global
Friday, 27 February 2009 00:00
India, New Delhi




* Energy efficient Euro 3 version of the fast selling Innova debuts in the country
* CNG version available in all petrol models of the Innova
* Offers about 50% saving in running costs



India's Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered Innova, the first energy efficient multipurpose vehicle (MPV) in the country, available as a bi-fuel option for all petrol models of the Innova. The Innova comes with a 1998 cc, 16V DOHC VVTi engine with manual fuel selection options. The on-board cylinder has a capacity of approximately 12kg of CNG and the running cost on CNG for the Innova is estimated to be around Re. 1.6/km or even less depending on the driving cycle. Taking into account mileage, increased engine oil life and reduced maintenance costs, the CNG Innova offers about 50% saving in running costs. The CNG Innova will be priced at around Rs 85,000 ($US1,650) higher than the current petrol version.

Announcing the launch of the first ever CNG Innova in India, Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director, TKM, said "Toyota is an environment conscious company committed to the cause of nurturing and protecting nature in its myriad forms. With CNG having established itself as an eco-friendly, reliable and economic fuel, TKM is pleased to announce India's first ever energy efficient MPV in India. This is yet another step in our efforts to make the environment more inhabitable."

TKM has tied up with CNG kit supplier M/s Minda Auto Gas Ltd to supply the CNG kits. The sophisticated kit is not only safe; its advanced Lambda control system ensures that it meets the Euro 3 emission norms. To ensure that there are no flaws in the fitment process, TKM has a special arrangement with M/s Minda Auto Gas Ltd to retro fit the kits on the Innova.

"CNG can reduce carbon-monoxide emissions by over 90 percent and offers better utilization of natural energy resources. Offering the Innova with a CNG kit will only add to its long standing appeal as it will not only be eco- friendly; it will also be hugely economical. We invite our customers to discover the true value unleashed by the new CNG Innova," said Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, TKM.

In the first phase of launch, the CNG Innova has been introduced in Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. The CNG Innova will also soon be launched in Baroda and Vijaywada. All Toyota dealers in the above 7 cities are equipped to sell and service the CNG Innova.

Buck