Tata Motors is all set to expand its CNG model lineup with the introduction of the Punch CNG, which is now available for pre-booking at dealerships. This will be the fourth CNG offering from the indigenous automaker, following the Altroz, Tiago, and Tigor CNG. According to Vinay Pant, Chief Marketing Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, the company currently holds an 8% CNG share in its product portfolio, and it aims to increase it to 14% by the end of this year. Read – Tata Electric Cars To Be Sold Via EV Only Dealerships
Looking ahead, Tata Motors has ambitious plans to achieve a 25% market share in the CNG segment by 2030, and to do so, it plans to introduce more CNG models. Additionally, the company is focused on expanding its electric vehicle range and aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. At this year’s Auto Expo, Tata Motors showcased three EV concepts – Harrier, Sierra, and Avinya. While these electric vehicles will be launched in the next 2-3 years, the Punch EV is expected to debut by the end of 2023.
As for the Tata Punch CNG, the model will be equipped with a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine combined with a dual-cylinder CNG technology. The CNG kit includes two cylinders with a capacity of 30 litres, which are fitted underneath the boot floor, thereby freeing up sufficient cargo space. In CNG mode, the setup delivers a claimed power of 76bhp and 97Nm of torque, with transmission duties handled by a 5-speed manual gearbox.
The CNG kit could be offered across the model lineup, and the Tata Punch CNG will feature the ‘i-CNG’ badge on the tailgate. The design, interior, and features of the micro SUV will remain intact, with notable amenities such as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 7.0-inch semi-digital instrument cluster, driver seat height adjustment, rearview camera, and auto climate control.
