Converting your current car to run on LPG doesn't need to be a lengthy or costly process

(25/09/2008)

According to Autogas, converting your current car to run on LPG needn't be a lengthy or costly process and can offer both cost-saving and environmental benefits.

Autogas National Marketing Coordinator, Chris Taylor, says many motorists consider the LPG conversion process to be complicated and expensive. The reality however is quite different.

"LPG is by far the most widely available alternative fuel available in the UK, although it is surprising that so few manufacturers are currently producing LPG powered vehicles1. However, most petrol powered cars, and even light commercial vehicles, can be easily converted to run on LPG."

Conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA Approved Installer who will comply with set safety standards, has undergone extensive training and examinations and can advise on the most suitable system for your vehicle.

Chris explains: "Finding an Approved Installer couldn't be easier. There are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK. Once you have identified your chosen outlet, you can enjoy the benefits in a matter of days. The conversion process involves installing a small tank, usually in the area of the boot where the spare wheel would be so that boot space is not sacrificed. A space-saving 'mini spare' wheel is then carried instead of a spare wheel.

"To complete the process, you will need to inform your insurance company and the DVLA that your vehicle has been converted, which can even lead to a reduction in Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax)."

The cost and environmental benefits of LPG conversions weigh up too. Chris continues: "As LPG currently retails at around half the price of petrol and diesel, converting to LPG can save up to 40 per cent on fuel bills. The cost to convert a vehicle to run on LPG is around £1,800 and based on current fuel prices and an annual mileage of 20,000 miles it would only take around 22 months to recoup this initial cost". In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site.

Vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels. LPG vehicles produce 17% less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2% less than diesel, 120 per cent less NOx than petrol and staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel and in terms of small particle emissions (PM10) one LPG vehicle will emit up to 120 times less than a diesel vehicle3.

Added benefits of running a vehicle on LPG can include up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge and increased residual vehicle values.

According to UKLPG, the number of LPG conversions carried out by LPGA Approved Installers stood at 12,500 last year, but Autogas predicts this number will rise significantly.

Manufacturers currently producing vehicles powered by LPG include Saab, Renault, Vauxhall, Subaru and Citroën.

Related categories:  Citroen   Green cars and environment   Hybrid and electric car   Renault   Saab   Subaru   Vauxhall