How to convert your car to use CNG in Nigeria

Subsidy Sapa Series

Hi folks! I dropped off for a bit, will try and post again with some regularity.

Lets start with simple things.

What is CNG?

CNG stands for compressed natural gas, which is a cleaner and cheaper alternative to petrol or diesel. CNG can reduce your fuel cost by up to 50% and your carbon emissions by up to 70%. CNG is also safer than petrol or diesel, as it has a higher ignition temperature and lower flammability range. CNG is not a new technology, as it has been used in many countries around the world for decades. In Nigeria, CNG is available in some states, such as Edo, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, and Abuja.

So, how can you convert your car to use CNG in Nigeria? Well, you will need a conversion kit, which consists of a CNG tank, a regulator, an injector, and some pipes and valves. You will also need a professional installer who can modify your engine and install the kit for you. The conversion kit alone can cost between N100,000 and N420,000, depending on the type and condition of your car. The installation fee can vary from N20,000 to N50,000, depending on the installer and the complexity of the job.

Sounds expensive, right? Well, don't worry, because the government has some incentives for you. The government has partnered with some original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to provide 50% funding for marketers who want to bring in conversion kits and station technologies. The government has also provided N250 billion from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for financing the conversion project. The government hopes that these incentives will encourage more Nigerians to switch to CNG and reduce their reliance on petrol.

The first step is to find a certified CNG conversion kit provider in your area. You can search online or ask your friends for recommendations. A CNG conversion kit consists of a high-pressure tank, a regulator, a mixer, and some pipes and fittings. The kit will be installed in your car's trunk or underbody, depending on the space available.

The second step is to book an appointment with the provider and take your car for the conversion. The conversion process usually takes about 4 hours and costs between N100,000 and N150,000, depending on the type and size of your car. The provider will also give you a certificate of compliance and a sticker that shows your car is CNG-ready.

The third step is to find a CNG filling station near you. There are currently about 50 CNG filling stations in Nigeria, mostly located in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Port Harcourt. You can use an app or a website to locate the nearest one. A CNG filling station looks similar to a petrol station but with different nozzles and meters. You can pay for the CNG using your debit card, Cash or mobile money.

The fourth step is to enjoy your CNG-powered car. You can switch between CNG and petrol using a button on your dashboard. You can also monitor your CNG level using a gauge on your dashboard. A full tank of CNG can last for about 200 km, depending on your driving style and traffic conditions. You will notice that your car runs smoother and quieter on CNG than on petrol or diesel.

If you convert your car to use CNG in Nigeria, you will also enjoy some benefits such as:

- Lower maintenance cost: CNG is cleaner than petrol or diesel, so it does not leave any deposits or residues in your engine. This means less wear and tear on your engine parts and less frequent servicing.

- Longer engine life: CNG has a higher octane rating than petrol or diesel, so it burns more efficiently and smoothly in your engine. This means less stress and strain on your engine and longer engine life.

- Better performance: CNG provides more power and torque than petrol or diesel, so you can accelerate faster and climb hills easier. CNG also improves your mileage and reduces your fuel consumption.

- Cleaner environment: CNG reduces your carbon footprint and helps fight climate change. CNG also reduces noise pollution and improves air quality.

Thank you for reading this post. I hope you found it informative and entertaining. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And don't forget to share this post with your friends and family who might be interested in converting their cars to use CNG in Nigeria.

Until next time, Grace to you!