The rough guide to Autogas (LPG)

What is Autogas/LPG?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. It is a by-product of the refining process that turns crude oil into petrol.

How much is Autogas?

At the time this guide was produced, the typical pump price of LPG was 39.9 pence per litre but shop around – locally we have gas available at 29.9 pence per litre!

Can all vehicles run on Autogas?

Subject to space limitations, most petrol-engined vehicles can be converted to run on Autogas at reasonable cost. The additional work necessary to convert diesel engines means it is not cost effective for cars or vans.
Although diesel conversions are being researched and trialed by Landi, and we are very interested to see the outcomes.

How do I get my car to run on Autogas?

By having it converted to bi-fuel operation by Redwood Autogas, LPGA Approved Installers. This is your guarantee of the highest quality conversion completed in accordance with the LP Gas Association’s Code of Practice 11 regulating such work.

What are ‘Single-Point’ and ‘Multi-Point’ systems?

Single Point systems are the least expensive, and as the name implies introduce the fuel at a single point, normally a mixer attached to the throttle body.

Multi Point systems offer the ultimate in autogas systems in terms of performance, economy and reliability, and the latest systems offer performance that is on par with the vehicle?s existing petrol injection system.

These are the conversion systems that offer our customers the greatest economy and performance in the long run.

Will Autogas affect the performance of my car?

The latest conversions make no appreciable difference to the car’s performance.

What about my insurance?

Your insurance company must be informed of the modification to LPG, and you should ask them to revise the sum insured to reflect the investment made. Generally they do not charge any additional premium because our Certificate of Conformity that the work is to the LPGA Code of Practice 11 is a guarantee of quality.

Why are Autogas cars sometimes referred to as bi-fuel?

Because converted cars have two tanks and two fuel-injection systems – one for petrol and one for Autogas. The driver can switch from one to the other while the car is running, and the latest systems will automatically switch back to petrol should you run out of gas during your journey.

Where will the extra tank go?

Depending on the vehicle and your preference, either crossways behind the rear seats or in the well beneath the boot floor where the spare wheel normally fits. The spare wheel is then carried loose or replaced by a tyre sealant. Four-wheel drive vehicles often offer further options for multiple tanks mounted beneath the bodywork.

Is it safe?

Yes. Autogas is stored at about 7 bar in a pressurised tank that is significantly stronger than a conventional petrol tank. The Autogas tank will withstand enormous impact forces without deforming, and every aspect of the fuel moving around your vehicle is protected by specific safety valves.

Why is Autogas more environmentally friendly?

Because it appreciably reduces co2 emissions ? one of the so-called greenhouse gases which threaten long-term climate change.
Overall emissions can be as much as 80 per cent cleaner using Autogas instead of petrol.

How long would it take to convert my car?

Installations vary enormously, so you will appreciate there is no standard answer. A typical family saloon car with a single boot-mounted tank should take two to three days, whilst a large 4x4 with multiple tanks may easily take a week.

How much does the conversion cost?

Conversion costs vary depending on the vehicle being converted and also the system being installed.
Our prices start from £1650 plus VAT for a 4 cylinder vehicle, rising to £2050 plus VAT for an 8 cylinder vehicle.
We can remove the LPG system and, if suitable, reinstall it onto your new vehicle should you wish to sell the vehicle.
There are many options.

>> for a specific quotation for your vehicle, please click here.

Tax Concessions for Business Users

As an incentive to encourage the use of greener fuels, the Government is currently offering 100% tax relief on all conversion costs in the same financial year as they are incurred.

What about Grants?

The grant situation is complicated in that the grants that are available are prescriptive both of the eligible vehicle and the autogas system to be installed.
the grant system is not up to date with the groudbreaking advances made by the latest multipoint sequential gas injection systems, designed for modern engines with electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters.
although these are the most expensive conversion systems, fuel economy is much improved because the LPG is injected just above the cylinder and is introduced via electronically controlled valves giving a higher accuracy and improved mpg with no loss of performance.
These are the only systems that we would recommend installing due to thier outstanding reliabity and performance.
On line application for grants can be explored at www.boostlpg.com.

Any further questions?

Please contact AccAutogas on 01531 633 569 or via email.