LPG Vehicles
As the cost of petrol soars it is becoming more and more apparent that we need to find alternative fuels for our vehicles. Liquid petroleum gas (LPG) is one of the alternatives that is proving to be particularly popular with motorists because not only is the conversion of petrol-fuelled vehicles to LPG is fairly simple and cost-effective, but the fuel itself is much cheaper (savings of at least 40% are standard). Going by the name 'autogas' when used for vehicle fuel, liquid petroleum gas is becoming more readily available at petrol stations across the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Europe and also further afield as motorists realize the environmental and financial benefits of making the switch.
Safer And Cleaner
Though autogas is classed as a fossil fuel (it is taken from stores of crude oil and natural gas that are unable to be synthetically replenished), it is regarded as being one of the cleanest forms. When used in vehicles its non-corrosive, non-toxic properties mean that it is much safer (both for the vehicle itself and for those using it). Because autogas has no tetra-ethyl lead or additives added to the mix and produces minimal sulphur, nitrogen oxide and carbon dioxide emissions it is also preferred for use in urban areas as the pollution it emits is far less harmful to pedestrians, motorists and those living near busy roads than other vehicle fuels.
Vehicle Availability
At present, a number of car manufacturers produce dual-fuel or LPG-fuel models, though many of these vehicles are only available in Europe or internationally. In the United Kingdom an initial lack of interest meant that many of the available models suited for LPG fuel had limited production runs and are now only available through second-hand purchase. Conversion, however, is relatively easy and many vehicle manufacturers will offer this service at a small additional cost prior to the purchase of a new vehicle (rather like the conversion from manual to automatic). Citroen, Proton, Ford, Saab, Vauxhall and Subaru are amongst the manufacturers who have LPG-ready models or models that are easily converted. There are also a number of scooter and moped models available that run solely on LPG.
Operation
Vehicles that have already been converted or which are manufactured as bi-fuel models will have a built in control panel and switch in the vehicle's dashboard that allows the driver to switch the fuel source from petrol to LPG and vice versa as needs dictate. Because converted vehicles almost always retain the petrol tank (the LPG tank is generally installed in the car boot), it is possible to double the distance the vehicle can drive between refuelling stops.
Other Benefits
Financially speaking, aside from savings in the cost of fuel that owners of LPG-fuelled vehicles enjoy, there are also additional benefits. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) offers approved LPG vehicles (including those that have been converted) a discount in road tax; whilst the Transport for London register maintains a list of approved LPG vehicles that are eligible for a London Congestion Charge exemption. Some large councils and boroughs also offer parking discounts for LPG converted cars (London, Manchester and Sheffield amongst them).