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Introduction
Questions & Answers
Savings calculator
Merelander - LPG
Conversion Specialists
Where to get gas
Useful gas-related links
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What exactly is LPG?
LPG stands for liquid propane gas - also known as Autogas. At atmospheric
pressure it is a vapour, under modest pressure it becomes liquid.
Is it more economical than diesel?
Although the actual miles per gallon will typically be less, the tremendous
price saving means a vehicle running on Autogas is often significantly
cheaper to run than the equivalent diesel vehicle.
If I convert my vehicles to Autogas, can I still
drive on petrol?
Yes, and with bi-fuel you'll almost double your range. The petrol tank
still remains in the car and the driver can switch from gas to petrol,
or vice-versa.
What is going to happen to the price of Autogas in the future?
Currently the cost is around 45p per litre. The Government has fully demonstrated
its commitment to LPG with sweeping cuts in LPG fuel duty. Over the last
8 years, duty on petrol and diesel has been increased in the budget, whereas
duty on LPG has either been frozen or reduced, thanks to it's environmental
benefits. This means duty on LPG is currently 4.5 ppl, while duty on petrol
is around 50ppl. And thanks to a long term Government strategy, it's expected
to stay that way. In 2004, the Chancellor announced that the beneficial
duty differential for LPG would only decrease by 1p per litre each year
for the next 3 years.
Where can I buy gas?
There are over 1,200 LPG refuelling stations in the UK, and this number
is constantly increasing. Many of the main filling stations and the supermarkets
sell gas. If you operate a depot based fleet, you can take advantage of
LPG immediately by installing your own tank on-site.
How much does it cost to convert my car?
The costs of conversion depends on a number of factors - the vehicle and
the make of kit, for example. However, prices tend to range from around
£1400+vat to around £2500 + vat.
What happens if an Autogas vehicle is involved in an accident?
All LPG tanks are rigorously tested and all are considerably stronger
than conventional fuel tanks. The UK has stringent safety standards for
Autogas vehicles and by selecting a reputable equipment manufacturer and/or
converter approved by the LPGA you are assured peace of mind.
How much cleaner is Autogas than petrol?
Carbon dioxide is widely regarded as a main contributor to the greenhouse
effect, which is making our planet warmer. Autogas reduces CO2 emissions
from vehicles previously powered by petrol by 15%. Autogas also emits
97% less Benzene than unleaded petrol.
How much cleaner is Autogas than diesel?
The black smoke that we see coming from diesel vehicles cause over 20,000
premature deaths a year. By replacing a diesel engine with an Autogas
equivalent, over 90% less of this particulate matter would be emitted.
Can LPG damage my engine?
No. In fact, LPG is a cleaner burning fuel engine, so life is extended
and less maintenance is required. The one exception is engines using leaded
petrol. These are not suitable and LPG may damage the engine.
Will converting affect the performance?
There is no real detectable difference in performance, In fact, with a
liquid injection system, performance can be increased by 5%. Some drivers
find increased drivability and for anyone used to driving on diesel, there's
obviously a significant reduction in noise.
How much space does the tank take up?
For a range of about 300 miles most tanks take up less space than a spare
wheel.
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