Despite the growing prominence of electric powertrains in the automotive industry's future car manufacturers are actively exploring alternative green and cost-effective fuel options. An exemplary case is the adoption of Compressed Biogas (CBG) demonstrating significant potential. India's largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki has introduced its first CBG-powered car at the Bharat Mobility Expo.

The Maruti Brezza CBG maintains the same engine as its petrol counterpart featuring the advanced K-series dual jet dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology. The engine produces 103.1 PS of maximum power and 136.8 Nm of peak torque when running on petrol with transmission options including a 5-speed manual transmission (5MT) and a 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT). In CNG mode the output is 87.8 PS and 121.5 Nm and CNG variants are available exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Brezza CBG achieves a mileage of 25.51 km/kg.

CBG shares similar characteristics with CNG including calorific value and other chemical properties with a methane content exceeding 90%. This similarity ensures CBG's comparability with CNG as a green fuel alternative to traditional petrol and diesel. The performance of the Brezza CBG is anticipated to mirror that of the CNG variant which is currently offered in LXi VXi and ZXi trims.

In terms of features the showcased Brezza CBG at the Bharat Mobility Expo does not undergo exterior updates. Notable is the presence of bold lettering on the sides indicating the fuel type in use. The retail version is expected to feature standard CBG labeling on the front and rear windshields. The equipment list for the Brezza CBG will align with the respective CNG variants.

To accommodate the CNG powertrain certain adjustments are implemented and these enhancements will also be available with the CBG variants. Maruti's CNG cars for instance incorporate an intelligent injection system for optimal combustion a re-tuned suspension to support the gas tank's weight and advanced components to enhance engine durability and lifespan.

Several practical features contribute to the seamless operation of the Brezza CBG. These include a micro switch to turn off the engine during fuel filling stainless steel pipes supporting the gas tank leak-proof materials an auto-switch for smooth transitions between CNG and petrol a fuel level indicator and an NGV receptacle for safe and swift CNG refueling. All these benefits are expected to be available with the Brezza CBG variants offering a comprehensive and efficient driving experience.