Expanding its Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) portfolio, Ashok Leyland has launched new twin fuel, CNG variants of Dost and Dost+ XL in India. Prices for the Dost CNG fuel start at Rs 8.20 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Dost+ XL Twin Fuel is priced at Rs 8.75 lakh (ex-showroom).
Twin Fuel Tech – CNG + Petrol
The main highlight of these new variants is the twin fuel technology aka CNG technology, which allows the vehicle to run on both CNG and petrol. Users can seamlessly switch between the two fuels, helping address the concerns associated with CNG vehicles.
This setup enables operators to primarily use CNG for lower operating costs, while petrol acts as a backup when a CNG station is not available. The system is designed to ensure uninterrupted operation, especially for long distance or last-mile deliveries.
payload and range
Ashok Leyland Dost CNG offers a payload capacity of 1,218 kg and a driving range of approximately 400 km. It is equipped with a 120-litre CNG tank, along with a 5-litre petrol tank for backup. Dost+ XL CNG offers a high payload capacity of 1,410 kg with a large 148-litre CNG tank. With a 5-litre petrol tank, it offers a claimed range of up to 500 km.
Engines, Specifications and Hardware
Powering the CNG buddy is a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder engine that produces 45 hp on CNG and 40 hp on petrol along with peak torque of 105 Nm (CNG) and 100 Nm (Petrol). The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, designed to handle both city and load carrying duties efficiently. The vehicle rides on parabolic leaf spring suspension at both ends, ensuring superior load stability, while braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear.
It also gets power steering for ease of use in urban conditions. The CNG setup comprises a 120-litre CNG tank (60+60 split) along with a 5-litre petrol tank, enabling a balanced mix of range and practicality. With a gross vehicle weight of 2,555 kg and a payload capacity of 1,218 kg, Dost continues to focus on the core strengths of durability and load carrying efficiency.
Targeting logistics and small businesses
These new CNG variants are meant for urban and semi-urban logistics operators, last-mile delivery businesses and small enterprises. With rising fuel costs and increasing demand for clean mobility solutions, dual fuel technology offers a practical balance between cost efficiency and operational flexibility.
With the launch of CNG Dost range, Ashok Leyland is further strengthening its presence in the LCV segment. The move is in line with the company’s focus on alternative fuel technologies and sustainable mobility solutions while continuing to offer reliable products to commercial users.
