Background and motivation for the project
Suzuki is known for innovative and often unconventional ideas, such as models like the Hayabusa or the rotor-powered RE5. However, with the biogas project, the manufacturer is taking a completely new direction. The aim is to use cow dung as an energy source for the production of biogas and to use this as an alternative fuel for vehicles. Specifically, this involves the “Biogas project: Collaboration between Indian dairy sector and Japanese automobile sector to address social issues in India,” which is to be fully implemented from 2025.
In cooperation with the Indian National Dairy Development Board and a local dairy industry association, a biogas plant is to be built that converts cattle manure into methane. This methane will then serve as a clean-burning fuel – both for vehicles and for other applications.
Why the focus is on India
India is an important sales market for Suzuki, especially since around 20 percent of passenger cars there run on compressed natural gas (CNG). Suzuki sees considerable potential here for using the existing infrastructure for climate-neutral alternatives. Cow dung is abundant in India and is considered a rapidly renewable resource.
Biogas in motorcycle racing: From the racetrack to the road?
Back in 2024, Suzuki entered a motorcycle powered by 40 percent biogas in the prestigious Suzuka 8-Hour Race. This year’s entry was powered by 100 percent biogas. Suzuki is reportedly planning a further increase for 2026 to further explore the potential of biogas as a fuel for motorcycles.
Advantages of the project
According to Suzuki, its biogas initiative has several advantages:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
- Creation of new sources of income in rural areas through the purchase of cattle manure
- Creation of jobs through the construction and operation of biogas plants
- Contribution to India’s energy independence
The project is being implemented with the support of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and is therefore more than just a niche ecological project.
Outlook: From pilot project to global model?
Suzuki is already planning to build more biogas plants with the help of Japanese technology. The aim is to expand the project in the future. The goal is to promote India’s economic growth while reducing emissions in the transportation sector.
Whether and when methane fuel will be introduced into Suzuki’s motorcycle range on a regular basis remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: biogas from cow dung could become an important component for lower-emission mobility in emerging markets.
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