Autogas, the leading automotive liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplier, is predicting that the number of LPG conversions will more than double this year.

According to UKLPG, the number of LPG conversions carried out by LPGA Approved Installers stood at 12,500 last year, but Autogas National Marketing Coordinator, Chris Taylor, is certain that the number will rise in 2008.

He says: "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 vehicles1. However, converting a petrol powered vehicle to LPG can be quick and simple and can save up to 40 per cent on fuel costs.

"Conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA approved installer and, as there are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK, it is easy to find your nearest specialist - a full list can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk ."

Chris continues: "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 take around 22 months to recoup this initial cost2."

Motorist Barry Ohrman purchased an LPG powered Saab 93 saloon six months ago and has been enjoying the benefits ever since. He says: "Saab managed the conversion process for me, which means the car comes with a manufacturer's guarantee. They installed a small fuel tank in the area where the spare wheel would usually be and provided a space saving 'mini spare' destined to take up less room in the boot.

"Although the number of miles per gallon achieved with LPG is slightly lower than petrol or diesel, the cost of refilling far outweighs any shortfall and there is no noticeable loss of power or performance. I have enjoyed massive fuel savings since making the switch and will continue to drive LPG vehicles in the future."

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. The environmental benefits weigh up too as 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.