Maruti Suzuki's record-breaking CNG sales have led to speculation that the automaker will introduce underbody CNG tanks in more of its new models. The discussion has picked up since the response from the market to the Victoris CNG was so positive and showed how better packaging can make CNG vehicles more practical and luggage space accessible without sacrificing luggage space.
Maruti Suzuki has not officially stated what new products will be manufactured at the company, but its recent sales numbers indicate that CNG is very much part of its overall strategy.
Record CNG Sales
In the latest quarter, Maruti Suzuki sold 2,18,213 factory-fitted CNG vehicles, the highest quarterly CNG sales.
According to the company:
- CNG models accounted for nearly 41% of all quarterly sales.
- This is up nearly five percent from the same period last year.
- Demand continues to grow in both urban and semi-urban markets.
The numbers indicate the growing demand for CNG for Indian customers with lower running costs.
Rising Fuel Prices Driving Demand
Maruti Suzuki said that recent price increases in petrol and diesel prices, along with geopolitical developments including tensions in the Middle East, have also driven the switch to CNG vehicles.
The company noted that:
- Many petrol car buyers are moving to CNG versions.
- Many diesel owners are also taking CNG to buy their next car.
- Lower fuel costs remain the main attraction for cost-sensitive consumers.
CNG options manufactured on factory-fitted CNG have become increasingly popular as fuel costs are a leading factor in ownership costs.
Why Underbody CNG Tanks Matter?
CNG vehicles typically put the gas cylinder in the boot, reducing luggage capacity.
An underbody CNG tank relocates the storage beneath the vehicle, providing several benefits:
More usable boot space
Better luggage capacity
Improved cabin practicality
Cleaner cargo area
Greater convenience for families and long-distance travel
These advantages have made underbody CNG systems particularly appealing to buyers who want fuel savings without compromising everyday usability.
Could more Maruti models get this technology?
The popularity of Victoris CNG has naturally led to speculation that Maruti Suzuki might be able to extend underbody CNG technology to future models.
The company has not announced any official plans, but growth of the technology will make it more competitive and more powerful in India’s expanding CNG passenger vehicle market.
Potential candidates might be popular hatchbacks, compact SUVs, and sedans where luggage space is an important consideration for customers.
Any such decision would depend on the compatibility of vehicle platforms, engineering feasibility, production costs, and customer demand.
CNG Market Continues to Grow
India’s CNG passenger vehicle segment has expanded rapidly over the last few years due to:
Rising fuel prices
Wider availability of CNG stations
Lower running costs
Lower emissions than conventional fuels
More factory-fitted CNG models
Maruti Suzuki remains one of the country’s largest manufacturers of factory-fitted CNG vehicles and has CNG options in various product categories.
Looking Ahead
Maruti Suzuki has not revealed whether future models will have underbody CNG tanks, but sales show that CNG is a critical pillar of its product strategy.
If customer demand for practicality improves, underbody CNG storage could become more and more common in upcoming Maruti vehicles. For now, customers will wait for the next generation of CNG models in the future.
