What is autogas?

Autogas or Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) is the cleanest vehicle fuel available today. The exhaust emissions contain less greenhouse gas (such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide) than petrol or diesel, and no dirty smoke or particulates.

That means that driving your car on autogas will be less polluting to the environment, and less damaging to everyone's health. Your engine will run more quietly too.

Which cars can be converted?

Most makes and models of petrol-engined cars and vans can be converted. In fact, the system we use works on around 95% of vehicles available today.

What happens to my car?

Your car will have a special kit added to the engine and an extra fuel tank, probably in the boot. Your car will drive on autogas but you will still have a tank of petrol to increase your range. Should you run out of autogas, simply flicking a switch gets you back on to petrol.

Where can I get LPG autogas?

There are over 1,400 fuelling points nationwide. Autogas really is the third fuel option, along with petrol and diesel. Maps and websites detailing locations are available - for example www.getlpg.org.uk

How much will it cost?

Depending on the make and model of your car, the kit and installation should cost from around £1,500 + VAT. You may be eligible for a grant from Powershift (in England and Wales) or Autogas+ (in Scotland).

Autogas itself currently retails at less than half the price per litre of petrol. In budget 2004 the Chancellor guaranteed that Autogas would remain considerably cheaper than petrol for the next three years and that he would announce future rises three years ahead.

How much boot space will I lose?

Probably not much. There are tanks designed to fit in the spare wheel well, but your requirements will be discussed with you anyway.

What about safety?

With more safety features than a vehicle petrol system and two cut-off valves that shut off the gas in case of an accident, our tanks are built to the highest standards and will remain intact even in the severest accident. The special pressure-relief valve ensures that the tank cannot explode even in the most intense vehicle fire. We can say this with confidence because we have demonstrated the safety of our equipment at the National Fire Services College.

What paperwork do I need to deal with?

You must inform the DVLA and your insurance company that your vehicle has been converted for autogas.

How long does conversion take?

Our installers will usually want your vehicle for three days.

National Autogas installers can usually provide a courtesy car or arrange collection of your vehicle, if necessary.

Will the car performance be affected?

We doubt you will notice any loss of power. You may well notice a quieter and smoother ride though.

What if the vehicle manufacturer won't give my vehicle a warranty?

An additional warranty can be purchased to cover the engine for one or two years.

What will happen afterwards?

When the installation is complete the installer will explain how easy it is to fill up with autogas and provide a certificate of conformity to send to your insurance and the DVLA.

National Autogas installers are good independent garages who can also provide quality, cost-effective servicing and repairs. Your autogas system requires very little maintenance but, like any fuel system, should be regularly checked.

How can I find out more?

Each autogas installation is tailored to fit your individual vehicle. We recommend that you take your vehicle to your local installer who will be happy to explain the installation in more detail. Our installer will discuss the best position for the autogas filler and fuel gauge and the most suitable LPG tank. Find your local installer here.