The future of motoring is indisputably green, with electric vehicles and hybrid models taking the lead in new car sales. However, for those who are not ready to give up the roar of an internal combustion engine, or those who simply cannot afford to upgrade to newer electric models, there is an alternative. Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a cleaner, cheaper fuel, and with some modifications, your existing petrol car can be converted to run on it. But how do you go about doing this legally in the UK?
Understanding LPG Conversions
Before diving into the actual process, it’s crucial to understand what an LPG conversion entails. A car running on petrol can be modified to run on LPG, a lower carbon, clean burning fuel. It’s an option that’s attractive not just for its green credentials, but also for the potential cost savings. Typically, LPG is around half the price of petrol and diesel in the UK.
This conversion involves installing a secondary fuel system in the vehicle. The car will still have the ability to use petrol, with a switch inside the car allowing the driver to choose between the two fuels.
The Legal Procedures for LPG Conversions in the UK
In the UK, the legal procedures for converting a petrol car to run on LPG are stringent. This is to ensure safety and the integrity of the vehicle. Here’s a look at the steps:
- Choose a Certified Installer: The UK has an LPG conversion industry association called UKLPG. Always choose an installer that is UKLPG-approved. They follow a strict code of practice and are audited for quality assurance.
- Declare the Conversion to the DVLA: Once the conversion is complete, you must inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about the change. They will then update the vehicle records, which will be important for insurance and road tax purposes.
- Get the Conversion Inspected: After the conversion, the car should be inspected by an independent engineer to ensure the installation is safe and up to standard. The UKLPG provides a list of such engineers.
Choosing A Quality LPG Conversion Kit
The conversion process primarily involves installing an LPG conversion kit in your car. The quality of this kit is critical as it can impact the performance, safety and efficiency of your vehicle.
Some of the high-quality brands available in the UK include Prins, BRC, Stag and Romano. These kits come with different features and they are suitable for different types of cars.
It’s also important to note that the installation should be handled by a professional. A poorly fitted LPG conversion can lead to leaks, poor performance and can even be dangerous.
The Cost of LPG Conversion
The cost of converting a car to run on LPG will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle and the type of kit installed. However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between £1,000 and £2,000 for a high-quality conversion.
This might seem like a significant outlay but consider the savings. As mentioned earlier, LPG is typically half the price of petrol. Therefore, if you cover a lot of miles, the conversion could pay for itself within a few years.
The Environmental Impact of Converting to LPG
Finally, it’s worth considering the environmental impact of converting your car to run on LPG. With the current emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner energy, this is a significant factor for many car owners.
Cars running on LPG emit around 20% less CO2 than those running on petrol. They also emit less harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulates. Therefore, converting your car to run on LPG can be a positive step towards reducing your carbon footprint.
Remember, while converting a petrol car to run on LPG may seem daunting initially, by following the strict legal procedures, choosing a high-quality conversion kit, and understanding the environmental and cost implications, it can be a worthwhile and rewarding project.
The Potential Challenges and Risks of LPG Conversion
Like any other significant changes to a vehicle, converting your petrol car to run on LPG comes with potential challenges and risks. Nevertheless, being aware of these potential issues can help you mitigate them effectively.
One of the primary concerns when it comes to LPG conversion is the potential for inferior fuel efficiency. While LPG is cheaper than petrol, it does not produce as much power. This means you may need to refill your tank more frequently, which could offset some of the cost savings.
Another issue is the availability of LPG. Not all petrol stations in the UK sell LPG, so you may need to plan your journeys to ensure you have access to this fuel. Luckily, there are various online resources, such as MyLPG.eu, that provide a list of all the LPG stations in the UK.
Moreover, the installation of an LPG tank can take up a significant amount of space in your car. This could impact the usability of your vehicle, particularly if you frequently need to transport large items or have a large family.
Also, be aware of potential insurance implications. Some insurance companies might charge higher premiums for LPG-converted cars, due to the alteration to the vehicle’s original specifications. Therefore, it’s recommended to check with your insurance provider before proceeding with the conversion.
The Future of LPG Cars in the UK
Given the UK government’s push towards zero-emission vehicles, the future of LPG cars may seem uncertain. The government has committed to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, and hybrid cars by 2035. However, this does not exclude the use of LPG as an alternative fuel source.
LPG remains a viable option for those unable to afford electric vehicles, as well as classic car enthusiasts keen to reduce their carbon footprint. The UKLPG has also made representations to the government about the role of LPG in the transition to zero-emission transport, emphasizing its green credentials and affordability.
It’s worth noting that while LPG conversions may not offer the same level of emission reductions as electric vehicles, they do provide a substantial improvement on traditional petrol or diesel cars. Therefore, for those who aren’t ready for or can’t afford an electric vehicle, converting to LPG may be a viable and greener option.
In conclusion, converting a petrol car to run on LPG in the UK is a legal and greener alternative to traditional fuel sources. While it does come with some potential challenges, such as slightly inferior fuel efficiency and the need for careful journey planning, the environmental and cost benefits can make it a worthwhile endeavour.
Remember, it’s crucial to follow the stringent legal procedures, including choosing a UKLPG-approved installer and informing the DVLA about the conversion. Moreover, selecting a quality LPG conversion kit and having it professionally installed can ensure the safety and efficiency of your vehicle.
Despite the UK’s move towards zero-emission vehicles, LPG conversions can serve as a bridge for motorists who are unable or unwilling to move to electric vehicles just yet. By reducing carbon emissions and other harmful pollutants, LPG offers a cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable way to enjoy the freedom of the open road.
