Switching to LPG can save up to 40 per cent on car fuel bills

(11/11/2008)

Almost 50 per cent of motorists have considered converting their car to run on LPG because of the rising cost of fuel. LPG currently retails at around half of the price of petrol and diesel, and in the recently published study, 47 per cent of people questioned said they have already considered converting their car to save money.

Autogas business development manager, Chris Taylor, said switching 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."

"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 vehicles. However, most petrol powered cars, and even light commercial vehicles, can be easily converted to run on LPG."

The survey found that 90 per cent of motorists have changed their driving habits as a result of current fuel prices. Almost two thirds of motorists have cut down on the number of car journeys they make, and 41 per cent have made an effort to change the way they drive to save fuel, for instance, by driving at a lower speed.

When asked about choosing a new car, sixty per cent of people cited reduced running costs and 40 per cent considered reduced carbon emissions as being 'Very Important' when making a purchase.

As well as dramatically reducing fuel bills, LPG's environmental credentials weigh up too. All LPG vehicles are entitled to up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge and as Chris explains, LPG motorists can rest assured they are doing their bit for the environment too: "Vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels.

"LPG vehicles produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2 per cent less than diesel, 120% less NOx than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel and up to 120 times less small particle (PM10) emissions than diesel vehicles."

Chris advises people who want to convert their car to always use a LPGA Approved Installer, who will have undergone extensive training and examinations and can advise on the most suitable system for your vehicle. There are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK.

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

"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", said Chris.

"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)."

In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site. The website also has further information on how to convert your vehicle.

Related categories:  Citroen   Diesel car   Eco fuels   Green cars and environment   Renault   Saab   Subaru   Vauxhall