The market for compressed natural gas (CNG) solutions has long catered to buses, cars, and three-wheelers, but two-wheeler CNG kits are now getting a modern upgrade. Lato, a leading manufacturer in the sector, has introduced an innovative Honda Cng Bike specifically designed for automatic scooters in India. This breakthrough product is set to transform how riders view fuel efficiency and running costs. In this article, we offer a comprehensive review of Lato’s CNG kit, covering its design, installation, performance impact, and overall value for high-mileage scooter users.
Transforming Scooter Efficiency with CNG Technology
Lato’s new automatic scooter CNG kit is engineered to provide a compelling alternative to traditional petrol-powered scooters. With compatibility for up to 18 scooter models—including favorites such as TVs Jupiter, Hero Maestro, Mahindra Gusto, and Honda Activa—this kit enables a smooth conversion from petrol to gas. Whether you’re considering an activa cng setup or curious about the benefits of a honda cng bike conversion, this innovation represents a significant step forward in sustainable urban mobility.
Innovative Design and Seamless Installation
At the core of Lato’s design are two cylinders with a combined capacity of 1.4 kilos. These cylinders are discreetly mounted behind the scooter’s apron and hidden under a sleek black plastic panel. An access hatch allows a view of the fuel gate, though its quality could be improved to match the kit’s overall sophistication. CNG pipes run unobtrusively from the cylinders to the engine, navigating under the floorboard and connecting to the reducer housed within the underseat storage area. However, this setup does reduce the available storage space—meaning that carrying a helmet might become a challenge.
The installation process takes approximately four hours, and while the conversion offers significant long-term benefits, it is important to note that installing the kit will void your scooter’s warranty. Despite initial concerns about the additional cylinders affecting legroom, the design preserves rider comfort.
User-Friendly Features and Controls
A standout feature of the kit is its toggle switch, which lets riders easily switch between petrol and CNG modes. This user-friendly control system is particularly useful for those converting their Honda Activa into a honda activa cng or any other cng scooter. Although the toggle switch and fuel gauge hatch are basic and could be upgraded in terms of build quality, they function effectively in managing fuel selection.
Performance Impact and Throttle Response
Switching to CNG results in a minor performance drop—around 5%—compared to the scooter’s original petrol configuration. This means that while the crisp power delivery of a petrol-powered Activa is slightly diminished, the overall performance remains robust. Riders might notice a slower throttle response and some motor lag, requiring a higher engine rev to reach optimal speeds. Despite these adjustments, the scooter can still achieve speeds up to 60 km/h, proving that the performance compromise is minimal in everyday riding scenarios.
Weight Considerations and Handling Dynamics
One consequence of the CNG conversion is an added weight of approximately 14 kilos. This extra mass, which can affect the scooter’s nimbleness, is mostly front-biased and might alter the handling characteristics, particularly in dense traffic. Riders transitioning from a traditional setup to a cng active system may initially feel the change, but once the scooter is in motion, the additional weight becomes less noticeable, and overall stability is maintained.
Superior Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings
Fuel efficiency is one of the most compelling advantages of converting to CNG. With half a tank of gas, riders can expect nearly 50 km per liter, a figure that rivals or even surpasses many petrol-powered scooters. For instance, a Honda Activa CNG offers a running cost of approximately 60 paise per kilometer, compared to 1.2 paise per kilometer for its petrol counterpart. These savings make the conversion highly attractive, especially for riders covering 60 to 70 km daily.
Evaluating the Investment: Who Benefits Most?
The economic benefits of converting to a CNG scooter are most pronounced for high-mileage users. For daily commuters, corporate fleets, or small business owners with extensive riding distances, the cost savings can quickly offset the initial expense of the conversion kit. In contrast, if your riding primarily consists of short city trips, a traditional petrol scooter might still be more practical. For those already considering an activa cng conversion or evaluating other options like a honda cng bike, the decision should be based on your specific mileage and usage patterns.
Also Read: Honda CB125R Review: Specifications And Price India
Full Technical Specifications
To help you understand exactly what you’re getting, here is a detailed breakdown of the key specifications for Lato’s CNG kit for automatic scooters:
Engine and Performance
- Engine Type: The kit is designed for scooters with engines similar to the popular Honda Activa, converting them into efficient cng scooters.
- Performance Impact: Approximately a 5% reduction in power with a slightly slower throttle response, yet still capable of reaching speeds up to 60 km/h.
Installation and Design
- Cylinders: Two cylinders with a combined capacity of 1.4 kilos.
- Installation Time: Around 4 hours.
- Storage Impact: The kit occupies part of the underseat storage, reducing space for items like helmets.
User Interface and Controls
- Toggle Switch: Allows seamless switching between petrol and CNG.
- Fuel Access Hatch: Provides a view of the fuel gate, although its quality is basic.
Weight and Efficiency
- Additional Weight: Approximately 14 extra kilos, predominantly front-biased.
- Fuel Efficiency: Nearly 50 km per liter with CNG, resulting in a running cost of around 60 paise per kilometer.
Comparative Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Impact | 5% power drop; throttle response slightly slower |
| Installation Time | 4 hours |
| Cylinder Capacity | 1.4 kilos (combined) |
| Additional Weight | 14 kilos extra |
| Fuel Efficiency | 50 km per liter on CNG |
| Running Cost | 60 paise/km (CNG) vs. ~1.2 paise/km (petrol) |
Pro Tip: Use the above table as a quick reference when comparing the cost-effectiveness of converting your scooter to a cng active system.
Honda cng bike Price
The decision to convert a scooter to run on CNG largely depends on your daily mileage. For those who cover 60 to 70 km every day, the return on investment can be substantial, as the reduced running cost quickly offsets the initial expense. In contrast, if your riding is confined mostly to short city trips, a petrol-powered scooter may remain the more practical option. In Mumbai, for instance, a typical scooter is priced around ₹1,77,000 (including taxes and registration).
The additional cost of the CNG kit might seem steep, but for corporate buyers or small business owners who rely on high daily kilometer counts, the savings in operational costs justify the investment. Lato is actively working to reduce the cost of these kits, potentially making them an even more lucrative option for private scooter owners in the near future.
Final Thoughts
Lato’s CNG kit for automatic scooters is a groundbreaking solution that redefines fuel efficiency in the two-wheeler segment. Whether you’re exploring the potential of a Honda Activa CNG, considering an activa cng conversion, or comparing options with a honda cng bike, this innovative kit offers a viable path to reduced running costs and enhanced sustainability. Despite minor compromises in performance and a slight increase in weight, the overall benefits—especially in fuel efficiency and cost savings—make it an excellent investment for high-mileage riders.
Pro Tip: If you travel extensively each day, a CNG conversion could significantly lower your fuel costs. Test drive your scooter with the new system to experience firsthand how it transforms your ride.
Embrace the future of sustainable mobility with Lato’s advanced CNG kit. This transformation not only positions your scooter as a cutting-edge cng scooter but also sets a new standard for cost-effective and eco-friendly commuting in India. Experience the benefits of a cng active system today and join the growing community of riders making the switch to a greener, more efficient ride.
