The number of service stations dispensing compressed natural gas (CNG) in Belgium is scheduled to increase from 110 to 170 by the year 2020. The additional outlets include 25 which will be added to the network run by Dats 24 fuel company - part the Colruyt distribution group – which made the announcement at the opening of the Brussels auto show.
This will bring the specialised fuel brand’s CNG stations to 88.
Natural gas cars are designed for every user profile, they are affordable and they offer an immediate solution for improving air quality, factors which explain why more and more of these vehicles are being registered in Brussels, Dats 24 noted.
CNG gives off up to 31% less CO2 and reduces fine-particle and NOx emissions by 75%, according to a study by the Electricity and Gas Regulation Commission.
More and more manufacturers are opting for CNG. “The market is finally beginning to take off and we’re delighted at that,” said a Dats source, citing Fiat, Opel, Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Ssangyong and Toyota as companies manufacturing natural-gas cars.
According to the Mobility and Transport Department, about 4,000 cars powered by natural gas were registered in 2018 in Belgium. When trucks and vans are added, the total amounts to about 5,000, double the 2017 figure.
At the end of 2018, there were 14,200 CNG vehicles and 11,900 electric cars on Belgian roads.
The Brussels Times
