Tata Motor recently re-entered the CNG cars space with the launch of the Tiago iCNG and the Tigor iCNG. Both models are based on their respective petrol counterparts and are also priced attractively. However, unlike the petrol models, the CNG versions do not get an automatic transmission option. However, speaking to carandbike, on the latest episode of Freewheeling With SVP, Shailesh Chandra, President Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors said that the company is planning on introducing automatic variants in the future.
Also Read: Tata Tiago And Tigor CNG Launched In India
When asked if the company would consider launching an automatic CNG car, Chandra said, "We are actively thinking of it. First, we would like to see the response of the market in the manual side, with the aspirational features we have taken, and if there are any adjustments needed, we would do that before introducing an automatic version. But it's very clear that the penetration of automatic has been increasing, and that's a logged-in trend. It is imminent that at some point of time we would actively look towards introducing an automatic version also."
Also Read: Tata Tiago CNG, Tigor CNG Variants Explained
Shailesh Chandra, President PV Business, Tata Motors says at some point they would actively look towards introducing an automatic version as well
Now, given the fact that right now the Tiago and Tigor are the only models that come with Tata's new iCNG technology, it is safe to assume that they will be the first models to get an automatic option. However, we believe that instead of conventional automatics like a torque converter or a continuous variable transmission or CVT, the company will stick to AMTs or automated manual transmissions. This is mainly because the petrol-powered Tiago and Tigor models already get AMT variants, and it's a more cost-effective technology.
Also Read: Tata Tiago iCNG vs Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG vs Hyundai Santro CNG: Price Comparison
Tata Motors want CNG models to account for about 35 per cent of its total passenger vehicle sales
Interestingly, rivals like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai India also currently only offer manual transmission choices when it comes to CNG cars. So, if Tata manages to launch an automatic version before the competitors, it will certainly have an edge in the CNG cars segment. Right now, the company aims for its CNG models to account for about 35 per cent of its total passenger vehicle sales, and automatic variants could help achieve that goal.
Currently, the Tiago iCNG is offered in four variants - XE, XM, XT, and XZ+ - and it's priced between Rs. 6.10 lakh to Rs. 7.65 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). On the other hand, the Tigor iCNG is offered in two variants - XZ and XZ+ and they are priced from Rs. 7.70 lakh to Rs. 8.42 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
