Association drops bombshell over cars with natural gas

(Bernama) – Thousands of cars using natural gas may just be “bombs-on-wheels” on the roads.

The warning comes from the Water and Energy Consumers Association of Malaysia (Wecam) whose research found that many motorists subscribed to this “penny wise, pound foolish” mentality by having their gas tanks installed by backyard workshops and unqualified mechanics.

Wecam secretary-general S. Piarapakaran said these motorists compromised on safety and settled for cheap materials and shoddy workmanship.

“They were found to have patronised backyard workshops and unauthorised mechanics for the installation of gas tanks in their vehicles.

“Since the gas is highly inflammable, poorly fixed gas tanks with leaking rubber hose could easily explode during a collision,” he said.

He said there was no competent body in the country to monitor natural gas vehicles (NGVs).

“Imagine the damage to the environment and loss of lives if the vehicles are plying busy highways,” he said yesterday.

Piarapakaran suggested that the police and Road Transport Depart- ment should get assistance from Sirim and other organisations to keep tabs on NGVs.

The association also said that there would be regular checks and enforcement of safety features in NGVs, use of genuine parts and reduction in the cost of installing tanks by authorised dealers.