Increased interest in LPG-fuelled vehicles

(22/04/2009)

Drivers using or thinking of using LPG have received a double boost with news just released by the automotive liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplier, Calor.

In 2008, 19 new companies joined the LPGA ‘approved installers’ scheme meaning a total of 192 approved installers are now available for drivers to modify their vehicles to run on LPG.

In addition over 85 per cent of tested vehicles that had been converted to LPG received an excellent or good rating under the quality assurance programme. This was up from 71 per cent in 2007.

Calor’s Autogas Development Executive , Chris Taylor, says professional and easily available installers were vital to increasing LPG-powered vehicles: “Increased interest in LPG-fuelled vehicles means it’s vital the amount of approved installers continues to increase in line with demand. Approved installers are monitored regularly to ensure customers receive a professional conversion, and this is shown in the latest figures for quality assurance.”

In addition to the increase in approved installers, motorists now have over 1,4001 LPG stations across the UK to fuel over 160,0002 vehicles now being powered by LPG.

Chris added: “Inspections of conversions and installers are fundamental to the well-being of industry and they should be congratulated for increasing quality to motorists. 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.”

Calor’s Joint Venture company, Autogas Limited, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. In addition, Calor supplies autogas from over 150 outlets through its Calor Centres, Morrisons supermarkets and other independent sites.

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 value.

Related categories:  Eco fuels   Green cars and environment