LPG growth expected from Government’s Road to Zero strategy

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is expected to play a role in helping the UK achieve a zero-emission transport future, according to Autogas.

In the Government’s Road to Zero report, LPG vehicles are found to emit less NOx, CO2 and particulates than both petrol and diesel models.

The report also uncovers LPG’s favourability over full petrol hybrids.

An LPG van was estimated to be cleaner in terms of both CO2 and NOx than petrol, full petrol hybrid and even Euro 6 diesel alternatives. Meanwhile for cars, an LPG car was estimated to emit 19% less CO2 compared to petrol, making its performance similar to that of a full petrol hybrid car.

“We’re very pleased that after an incredibly thorough and extensive research process involving many important stakeholder groups, the Government has outlined its support for LPG in its quest for a zero-emissions transport future,” comments Holly Jago, general manager, Autogas Limited.

“The new findings are similar to the results of our own tests conducted regularly over many years and emphasise what a pivotal role LPG can play in emissions reduction, especially in highly polluted, urban environments.”

There are currently no opportunities for van or car buyers to buy an LPG model directly from vehicle manufacturers in the UK, however.

The Government’s report does support the retrofitting of LPG systems, especially for vans and taxis.

As well as outlining the potential for NOx reductions, the report states that “retrofitting vehicles with pollution-reducing technology can offer a relatively low cost alternative to purchasing new low emissions vehicles”, giving drivers another reason to switch to LPG.

LPG currently cost less than half the price of diesel, at around 58p per litre. Converted vehicles also benefit from a £10 reduction in annual VED.

In the Road to Zero report, the Government outlines a 15-year strategy to more than double the use of sustainable fuels to 7% by 2032. It does not outline any assurances that LPG will be protected against future taxation, or benefit from any future incentives.

Currently, around 100,000 vehicles in the UK are running on LPG, serviced by a network of more than 1,300 LPG refuelling stations.