What procedures are required for converting a car to natural gas?
4 Answers
Submit an application to the local vehicle management office. After obtaining approval from the vehicle management department and completing the vehicle modification application form, you can proceed with the conversion at a designated automotive modification enterprise. The specific procedures required for converting a car to natural gas are as follows: 1. Before the vehicle modification, the owner should submit a vehicle management application to the local authorities. After approval from the vehicle management department and completing the "Vehicle Modification Application Form," the conversion can be carried out at a designated automotive modification enterprise; 2. After the vehicle modification, present the vehicle modification qualification certificate issued by the modification unit, along with the modification application form, to the vehicle management department to complete the motor vehicle modification registration procedures; 3. Generally, formal natural gas conversion manufacturers will handle these procedures for vehicles converted at their facility without charging an agency fee.
I remember the process of converting to CNG was quite troublesome, requiring visits to several departments. First, you had to find a qualified modification workshop to install the gas cylinder properly—they would provide the cylinder qualification certificate and installation certificate. Then, you needed to bring materials like your ID card, driver's license, and vehicle registration certificate to the DMV to apply for modification registration. The staff would inspect the vehicle and take photos, and upon approval, the "dual-fuel (gasoline/CNG)" annotation would be added to your vehicle license. After the conversion, don’t forget to visit the Quality Supervision Bureau to apply for the gas cylinder usage registration certificate, which requires re-inspection every two years. The insurance also needed updating—I simply called my insurer to add a modification endorsement. The whole process took three days in total, with the most annoying part being the long queues at each office—I’d recommend making appointments in advance. After conversion, it did save fuel costs, but remember to bring the gas cylinder inspection report during annual inspections.
The procedures for vehicle CNG conversion focus on legal compliance. First, you must select a modification company with special equipment installation qualifications, and obtain the cylinder installation supervision inspection certificate after construction. Then, bring this certificate along with the vehicle documents to the DMV for filing, which requires passing strict safety inspections. Registration with the quality and technical supervision department for the gas cylinder is essential, involving the issuance of a pressure vessel usage registration certificate. Additionally, promptly notify the insurance company to endorse the policy and confirm coverage. Throughout the process, retain all original documents, and it's advisable to consult the local DMV in advance for the specific material checklist to avoid omissions. After completion, be sure to obtain the electronic tag for the gas cylinder to facilitate scanning and identification at refueling stations.
Simply put, converting to CNG involves three steps: First, find a certified modification shop to install the gas cylinder and obtain the qualification certificate. Second, bring your ID card, vehicle license, and modification certificate to the vehicle management office to apply for vehicle modification registration. Third, visit the quality supervision department to apply for the gas cylinder usage registration certificate. Note that the gas cylinder requires professional inspection every two years, and you must notify your insurance company to update the policy immediately after modification. After conversion, remember to apply for a refueling card, as many gas stations now require the display of the gas cylinder's electronic tag. The entire process takes about two days, with most time spent queuing. Finally, be aware that illegal modifications detected on the road can result in vehicle impoundment and fines.
