SML Isuzu Rolls Out CNG Truck Sartaj HG72 in Jaipur

SML Isuzu today rolled out its CNG-run truck, the Sartaj HG 72, in the Jaipur market in Rajasthan, today. The commercial vehicle maker is said to have leveraged the CNG infrastructure on the Jaipur-Delhi highway built by the Rajasthan State Gas Limited (RSGL). With the green tax burning a hole in operators’ pockets, SML Isuzu is confident that the new CNG truck will help reduce operation costs.

With a goal to provide cleaner fuel to 250 cars/50 trucks on a daily basis, RSGL has already set up a main CNG station in Neemrana. Another station has been set up in Kukkas, as part of the Rajasthan government’s strategy to create gas infrastructure for provision to domestic, automotive, commercial and industrial customers. The state authorities are also planning to set up another facility in Neemrana that would cater to 250 vehicles.

According to Ravi Agarwal, Managing Director, RSGL, "The CNG vehicle launch by SML Isuzu in Jaipur is the first by any company in the state. In order to further encourage the adoption of CNG-powered vehicles, we are planning to set up two more stations along the Jaipur-Delhi highway. An MoU has already been signed with the Indian Oil Corporation which will facilitate the two stations at its retail outlets."

CNG is not only environment-friendly and low on maintenance (5% less than diesel powered vehicles), but cost effective too. For example, one round trip by a CNG-run vehicle leads to savings of around INR 2330 (fuel saving of INR 930 and savings in green tax of INR 1400). For 20 such trips taken in a month, the annual savings sums up to INR 5.59 lakh.

Mr. Agarwal also revealed that besides the Jaipur-Delhi route, plans are already underway to expand the network from Jaipur to Kota, Baran and Jhalawar. As RSGL already has a presence in Kota in terms of CNG infrastructure, it will help the team to expedite the work to create more green highways which will also have a positive impact on the industrial landscape in the state.

The increasing concern over rising pollution levels has led to stricter measures, including the National Green Tribunal’s plan over banning vehicles older than 15 years from Delhi. More such options like the Sartaj HG 72 from commercial vehicle makers and availability of CNG stations pan India will not only address concerns regarding pollution, but also help consumers choose from a wider range.