This man, his machine: is it the answer to CNG?

‘‘It is too premature to compare it to CNG vehicles because we are still awaiting test results from IIP,’’ said Dilip Biswas, chairman of the Central Pollution Control Board.

But Gopalakrishnan is confident that this device is a huge advantage over existing technology. Unlike regular catalytic converters which clean up exhaust through the tailpipe, Hydrodrive is a ‘‘pre-engine device’’ which cleans fuel before it enters the engine.

Speaking to The Indian Express from Chennai, Gopalkrishnan said his easy-to-use device costs Rs 6,000 for a car, Rs 12,000 for a truck—the basic cost for CNG conversion is Rs 20,000. It works on the principle of a microwave exciting fuel molecules and partly ionising them thus altering the kinetics of combustion. In effect, this helps the fuel to burn better, increases efficiency which means more mileage. Also, it cuts down on sulphur, oxides of nitrogen, and unburnt hydrocarbons, emissions responsible for bronchitis and cancer. All this at a fraction of the cost required for CNG conversion.

On the more important issue of SPM (suspended particulate matter), which is near negligible for CNG, Gopalkrishnan claims his device will bring it down to CNG-levels although he admits that those tests have not been done yet.

Gopalkrishnan’s device has earned him an Asian Innovation Award from Hong Kong-based Far Eastern Economic Review. This has led to testing by users in a variety of small cars, metro buses, auto-rickshaws and trucks.

He also has the enthusiastic support of G V Ramakrishna, the former Petroleum Secretary, Planning Commission Member and chairman of the Disinvestment Commission. Awaiting a patent in India since 1996 and the USA, Hydrodrive has been registered in the Philippines and the country has placed an export order for 500 of these, said Gopalakrishnan.