CNG is “in” and how? Mercedes Benz India has itself endorsed the idea of introducing the CNG variant of its new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This step probably might boost the sales of E-Class in India and might as well propel the sales of Mercedes units in India so that it will regain its lost territory. Oof! What a thought?

Mercedes Benz India is contemplating to bring in and deliver the CNG variant of its popular model E-Class sedan to the customers who want them.

But the CNG variant comes with a catch, it has to be imported. Well, so what’s the hitch you might ask? India, which has got its own, one of a kind, infamous import duty policy will be a deterrent to the customers who would want to import the CNG versions of the car.

This is because the imported car will attract 104 per cent duty, which will mean that it will be twice as much the latest edition of the E-Class (petrol) that costs Rs 45.89 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai). The fact that CNGis largely retailed in Delhi and Mumbai also means that the market will be confined to these two cities.

Mercedes Benz India would consider assembly of the CNG version if there was adequate demand. The petrol Merc models are E-25 (25 per cent mix of ethanol) compliant while the diesel options can operate on bio-diesel.

Mercedes had earlier conducted a trial run of the CNG-E Class in India. The mileage of the car is estimated to be 18 km a kg.