Persona NGV launched in Thailand

Earlier this blog has posted the below :

It should also be remembered that Proton has also announced plans to release NGV (CNG) models. Insider news indicate the projects are already in fairly advance stage and the last I heard, they are talking to a few suppliers. Expect NGV versions of Saga and Persona to be released soon. These OE engineered NGVs should fare better than many after-market conversions, which I have always been doubtful of their work, particularly on modern electronic fuel injected engines. Installation of the heavy CNG tank at the trunk alters the weight balance of the vehicle and thus critical airbag and ABS sensors must be recalibrated. Sections of the trunk must also be strengthened to resist rust and metal fatigue. More about that here.

Yesterday, the first Persona CNG was launched in Thailand. It seems that Proton is now choosing Thailand to debut its new models instead of its home market. Remember that the Gen.2 CPS made its debut in Thailand too. I guess it is easier to start on a clean sheet in Thailand, where Thai consumers have less preconceived notion about Protons. The same can't be said about Malaysia though, where its image is far from satisfactory. In fact, the Savvy is doing brisk sales in Thailand, where the Thais are attracted to its low price, good fuel economy and handling. Also, I cannot verify this but I have been told by some parties that the Savvy is the only exising car in the Thai market to meet its upcoming EcoCar Project requirements.

The Persona CNG (NGV) now joins a growing list of bi-fuel natural gas and petrol powered models sold in Thailand with factory fitted CNG kits, including Chevrolet Optra and Silverado and Mercedes E200 NGT.


Mercedes E200 NGT. More images at wcf




Chevy Colorado CNG

Chevrolet Optra CNG, which is also sold in Singapore.

In Thailand, CNG passenger cars attract a lower excise duty; only 20% as compared to 30% - 40% for a standard petrol powered equivalent model. I guess this is another reason why the Persona CNG was launched in Thailand first, as Malaysia has no such incentive in place and CNG refueling facilities in Malaysia is far from adequate - as only certain Petronas stations in Klang Valley offers CNG fuel, and even those are faced with extremely long queue of taxi drivers waiting to refuel their vehicles.


Also, CBT is tracking the journey of a W124 E-class owner's first hand experience in converting his petrol powered Mercedes to run on bi-fuel CNG-petrol. Follow the weekly progress here.