LNG is an alternate energy, near zero emissions natural gas, which is now launched in India by all major petro companies like IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, Gail India, and also many private players like B-LNG and Ultra Gas, that is poised to disrupt the Trucking industry in the country. 

China and major European countries accepted this gas, now accepted by India, to reduce carbon footprints and benefit the environment. 

LNG Truck Technology

The first 55T LNG tractor trailer approved by ARAI was launched in India by one of the new startups and unveiled by Mr. Nitin Gadkari in August'22. This is the most advanced next-generation heavy-duty LNG truck meeting BS-VI emission norms with powertrain technology and boasts of advanced technology such as IoT, AI, and data science to power the LNG trucks.

The mission is to create a clean energy truck technology alternative to decarbonize the environment by providing an immediate solution and breaking the barriers of economic returns. Also to transform the long-haul transportation industry in the country by providing an opportunity to reduce the total cost of operations (TCO) by up to 25% and reduce carbon emissions by up to 40% per annum. 

Properties of LNG Truck Technology

Liquified Natural Gas is a supercooled gas that can be used for long transportation and is stored in a cryogenic tank with a maximum capacity of 1000 L, which can carry 375-400 KG of gas with a maximum lead of 1400 KM.

The gas is stored at a temperature of -175 to -200 degrees and is non-flammable and non-hazardous to people and the environment. LNG is the only solution for long lead transportation before Hydrogen technology comes into the picture, which will take 10-15 years more if everyone across the industry works together and government policies support it in the same way. 

Like many European Countries, the UK, China, USA, Japan, and India are targeting Diesel Free Country by 2035. 

This article was contributed by our expert Arpit Nahar

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Arpit Nahar

Q1. What are the benefits of LNG trucks?

LNG is a zero-emission cryogenic fuel that decreases carbon footprints and is needed for the environment.

Q2. What is the future of heavy-duty LNG trucks?

Future is totally green fuel, and LNG is the best solution for long route Heavy Duty Trucks as it is easy to transport in liquid form and in large quantity.

Q3. Which companies have implemented the LNG truck technology?

Blue Energy Motors is the first company to introduce LNG Powered Trucks. Other existing OEMs are also working on it. Volvo and IVECO are some global brands that are into it.

Q4. What is the expected impact of LNG truck technology?

20% market cap by 2035 in India.