February 19, 2024. In recent years, natural gas for vehicles (NGV) has emerged as an efficient and sustainable solution for the transportation sector, according to the Colombian Natural Gas Association (Naturgas). With growing interest in reducing emissions and optimizing operating costs, NGV has gained significant ground in the Colombian automotive market.
In 2023, 342 new vehicles dedicated to the use of natural gas were sold in the country. This figure reflects an increasing trend in the adoption of this environmentally friendly technology. Furthermore, within this figure, the 310 cargo trucks of more than 10.5 tons that were marketed stand out, which represents an increase of 12% compared to the previous year in this specific segment.
According to Naturgas, one of the key factors that drove the growth of NGV conversions in 2023 was the increase in the price of gasoline. An impressive 63% increase in conversions was recorded, indicating a clear preference for this cheaper and more sustainable alternative among vehicle owners and operators. This rise shows the growing awareness of the importance of reducing operating costs and mitigating environmental impact.
In addition to the economic benefits, the use of natural gas also offers important environmental advantages. It has been shown to significantly reduce emissions of harmful pollutants by 99% in fine particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions, and a 75% decrease in nitrogen oxides. These figures actively contribute to improving air quality in cities.
