Maruti Suzuki introduces i-GPI CNG technology in five of its models

India's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki today unveiled its flagship compressed natural gas (CNG) engine technology, intelligent-Gas Port Injection (i-GPI) in five of its popular models.

Different car models of Maruti.

The CNG vehicles were unveiled by Minister of State for Environment & Forests Jairam Ramesh at a function here today in the presence of Maruti Suzuki Chairman R C Bhargava, Managing Director & CEO Shinzo Nakanishi and other senior officials.

The models include SX4, Eeco, WagonR, Estilo and Alto and are being launched in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), Mumbai and Gujarat.

With these, the company's CNG footprint spreads across entry level cars, compact cars, sedans and MPV segments.

"We are happy to bring contemporary CNG technology to the Indian customer. We are confident customers would value our i-GPI technology that is safe, reliable, clean, responsive and environment friendly. Adapting the CNG technology in our vehicles is another step to keep low cost of ownership for our customers," Mr Bhargava said.

Mr Nakanishi said the development was significant on multiple counts. "This is the first instance when a car manufacturer has developed and launched factory-fitted technologically superior CNG engines in India. Compressed Natural Gas is environment friendly and also reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuels. Maruti Suzuki’s big ticket entry into CNG fuel segment augurs well for the environment," he said.

According to a press release from Maruti Suzuki, the i-GPI bi-fuel technology ensures more power vis-a-vis retro-fitted CNG vehicles and offers a ride experience on par with that of a petrol-fuelled engine while achieving high fuel efficiency.

It said the factory fitted CNG vehicles score very high on safety and reliability vis-à-vis the aftermarket retro-fitted options. Maruti Suzuki CNG vehicles pass through all the quality checks, processes and systems similar to a regular car manufactured at Maruti Suzuki plants, it said.

The release said that, as the CNG technology is factory fitted, customers will enjoy the full warranty benefits including extended warranty. They will also have the back-up of more than 2700 service stations, it said.

"The simultaneous launch of five CNG vehicles with the same contemporary technology demonstrates the company’s intent and future readiness to produce environmentally friendly vehicles in large numbers," the release added.

NNN