VOLKSWAGEN has begun supplying vans converted to run on liquefied petroleum gas to meet a growing demand from fleet managers for alternatively-fuelled vehicles. Already the manufacturer has won an order with the AA to supply it with two Transporter vans, which will be used as fully-equipped rescue vehicles in urban areas.

An AA spokesman said: 'These vehicles will not only reduce the emission levels in congested areas, but should also be cheaper to fuel. We will be closely monitoring how the vehicles progress and what, if any, running cost savings are made.' Volkswagen says that following the Budget - which saw duty on LPG slashed by 29% putting it at 35p per litre, about half the amount of unleaded petrol and diesel - fleet interest had increased dramatically.

The manufacturer will have an example of a converted LPG Transporter at this year's Fleet Show, which runs from Tuesday, April 27 until Thursday, April 29, at the NEC in Birmingham.

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