Dubai, Nov 10th, 2011 (WAM) -- Emirates Gas (EMGAS), a subsidiary of the Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), is showcasing the energy efficiency and environment friendly attributes of compressed natural gas (CNG) powered automobiles at the Dubai International Motor Show.

EMGAS is also partnering with Volkswagen Middle East to display a CNG-powered Passat Variant car, to underline the practical application of CNG in cars and the value addition it brings to the users and the community at large. The CNG-powered Passat Variant is being displayed at the Volkswagen Middle East pavilion, shared by EMGAS on which experts are available on the stand to provide more details to the visitors.

Zaid Al Qufaidi, Managing Director - ENOC Gas Marketing said: "The use of CNG to power automobiles is increasingly gaining acceptance in the region, as demonstrated through our partnership with Volkswagen and other partners. Today, one of the key challenges faced in the region is the rising energy costs, increased dependency on fossil fuels, and the impact of their long-term use on the environment. CNG serves as a cost-effective and environment-friendly alternative. We are leveraging the platform of the Dubai International Motor Show to highlight the benefits of using CNG-powered vehicles."Quoting a recent study, he added that global sale of CNG-powered vehicles is expected to rise from 1.9 million vehicles, annually, as of 2010 to over 3.2 million units per year by 2016. For the Middle East, this is an opportune time to understand the benefits of using CNG as a vehicle fuel and further invest in CNG vehicles.

EMGAS is currently providing CNG to Dubai Municipality for fuelling Dubai Municipality vehicles, which have been converted to run on the natural fuel. Most recently, EMGAS hosted a welcome ceremony for the Asia Pacific Natural Gas Vehicle Association (ANGVA) Green Highways 2011, a multi-country roadshow aimed at promoting the use of natural gas vehicles as a green fuel alternative and the natural gas vehicle (NGV) infrastructure.

EMGAS has been working closely with RTA to introduce CNG in public transport to enhance environment protection. A unique model of pipe-less natural gas fuel stations is proposed in Dubai as part of plans to implement a cost-effective and environment-friendly natural gas transportation stations.

Government vehicles will first switch to CNG followed by private cars in the emirate to reduce carbon emissions and cut fuel costs. Dubai Municipality is one of the first Dubai Government organisations to begin the conversion of their fleet of vehicles to CNG.

For over 37 years, EMGAS has been the leading supplier of LP Gas products and services. Its hospitality customer portfolio includes hotels, residential apartments and shopping malls in Dubai and UAE. Certified to the highest global standards, EMGAS operations include the supply of liquefied petroleum gas, which can deliver output far greater than electricity.

EMGAS recently introduced "Pro-Power", a customized gas cylinder, for forklifts, further promoting clean transportation. Another key product is Cutting Edge Gas (CEG), which was introduced following research that industries such as metal cutting and ship building had strong requirements for safe and economical cutting fuel.

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2011.