The Indian government is planning a major shift towards liquefied natural gas (LNG) to power a third of the country’s long-haul heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) fleet over the next 5-7 years. A draft proposal from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas outlines steps to make this transition possible, including allocating domestic gas for LNG supply.
According to the ministry’s plan, 0.5 million metric standard cubic meters a day of domestic natural gas may be allocated for an initial period of three years to ensure stable and predictable LNG prices. This allocation is expected to power 50,000 trucks within the next 2-3 years.
To further support this transition, the ministry has proposed the establishment of small-scale liquefaction plants in off-grid areas to convert biogas into bio-LNG. This would enhance the availability of bio-LNG for transport.
The oil ministry has already directed state-run oil companies to set up 49 LNG dispensing stations across the country. Additionally, oil marketing companies may incentivise fleet owners to convert diesel trucks to LNG-powered trucks, accelerating the shift towards cleaner fuel.
One of the pilot initiatives under consideration is developing the Delhi-Mumbai expressway as an LNG highway. The proposal suggests exempting LNG-powered trucks from toll taxes on this route, which could significantly reduce operational costs and encourage faster adoption.
With LNG offering a 24% lower emission factor than diesel, this transition aligns with India’s sustainability goals. Currently, medium and heavy commercial vehicles consume about 40% of all diesel in the country. By promoting LNG adoption, India aims to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance the efficiency of its transport sector.LNG trucks, oil ministry, LNG, LNG in heavy-duty vehicles, LNG for trucks in India, sustainable transport India, LNG dispensing stations,bio-LNG in transport, Delhi-Mumbai LNG highway, diesel to LNG conversion.