Hybrid Vs CNG Vs Diesel: Which Cars Are More Fuel Efficient?
The automobile world is an ever-evolving entity with its roots entangled in various scientific disciplines ranging from mechanics to aerodynamics. Over the years, this industry has leveraged its prowess of blending various branches of science to create vehicles powered by various fuel sources- Petrol, CNG, Diesel, and
Electric. With the development came multiple options, and in the long run, a consumer overwhelmed by the choices. To simplify this process of selection, here we take a look at the choices through the lens of fuel efficiency, comparing options like petrol hybrid, CNG, and diesel cars.
Diesel CarsThe first diesel car came to exist in the 20th century. Since then diesel-powered cars have become the choice for people looking for cars that can offer mileage and good performance. Hence, these cars are good choices for people who go on long journeys. These cars offer better mileage compared to petrol cars. However, the engines are less refined and have higher NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) levels when compared to other forms of fuel. Furthermore, they add to the value by giving better performance on the lower end. Hence, ideal for use in creating vehicles with more torque. If you are looking for a diesel cars you can buy models like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Mahindra XUV700.
Diesel CarsThe first diesel car came to exist in the 20th century. Since then diesel-powered cars have become the choice for people looking for cars that can offer mileage and good performance. Hence, these cars are good choices for people who go on long journeys. These cars offer better mileage compared to petrol cars. However, the engines are less refined and have higher NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) levels when compared to other forms of fuel. Furthermore, they add to the value by giving better performance on the lower end. Hence, ideal for use in creating vehicles with more torque. If you are looking for a diesel cars you can buy models like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Mahindra XUV700.
CNG CarsCNG-powered cars are essentially hybrid vehicles sold in bi-fuel configurations. These engines, if needed, can switch from one type of fuel to another. Because of this, they have a higher level of refinement when compared to diesel engines. Additionally, CNG as a fuel has a low energy density. Hence, they lack the power and acceleration. However, these engines are more fuel efficient when compared to petrol or diesel. Typically, these engines are 25-30% more efficient than diesel engines. Some of the good CNG cars in India are Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Tiago, and Hyundai Aura.
Petrol HybridPetrol-powered engines are used for performance on the higher end of the rev range. Furthermore, these units are more refined when compared to the diesel engines. If compared with diesel and CNG in terms of fuel efficiency, these will be placed last on the rank list. But adding an electric aid in the form of a PHEV changes the dynamics. This technology is being currently used by manufacturers to improve the fuel efficiency, performance, and refinement of the engine. Hybrid powertrain is available in cars like Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Innova Hycross among others.
ConclusionFor a fair comparison of different fuel options in terms of efficiency, let's assume a scenario where these fuels are used with three engines of the same capacity. In this case, the petrol hybrid will be the most efficient option as the electric aid optimizes the use of fuel. CNG will be the second most efficient option due to its low energy density. Diesel-powered engines will be the least efficient option.
To better understand this, let's take the example of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. The strong hybrid variant of this vehicle has a claimed mileage of around 27.97 kmpl, while the CNG variant offers a mileage of around 26.6 km/kg. Similarly, a 1.5-litre diesel engine will have a mileage of around 22 kmpl.
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