MAYOR FUELS CASE FOR LPG

The Mayor of Hayle, Councillor John Bennett, welcomed the availability of LPG to the far south west, when he attended the Autogas expert motoring roadshow last week.

Councillor Bennett officially opened the LPG refuelling pump on the forecourt of the Shell site in Hayle, making the cost effective, environmentally beneficial fuel available to residents of south west Cornwall.

Speaking at the event Councillor Bennett said: “Fuel costs in rural areas are a key issue and anything that can help local residents save money on fuel must be welcomed.

“The availability of LPG on this site is not only good for local Hayle residents, but also good for the county and for holiday makers. It was reassuring to see how many people were filling up their vehicles with LPG meaning many motorists in our area are not only saving money, but also reducing the harmful impact they have on the environment. And it is also encouraging to see that Shell is willing to build on its investment in Hayle.”

To celebrate the availability of LPG, Autogas hosted an expert motoring roadshow on the Shell site, inviting Sunday Times motoring journalist and TV car expert Jason Dawe to share his fuel-efficiency tips with Shell customers helping them to make the fuel in their tank go further.

Jason says: “Recent headlines showing increases in domestic fuel costs have made everyone think about how much they are spending, so if you can cut your fuel bills by up to 40 per cent it sounds like a great idea.

“Autogas LPG is a UK produced fuel that is widely available to UK drivers. It produces around 20 per cent less C02 than a car running on petrol and significantly less particulate matter and NOx than a standard diesel engine.”

Autogas and Jason Dawe were joined at the roadshow by representatives from leading fast fit retail experts HiQ, who offered free tyre safety checks, as well as Mazda, which has recently made a commitment to support vehicles running on LPG.

LPG refuelling sites in Cornwall now include Shell Penhale, Kingsley Village, Fraddon; Shell Caradon, Trerulefoot, Saltash; Shell Carland Cross, A30 Mitchell, Newquay; as well as Shell Hayle, Carwin Rise, Hayle.

ENDS

Notes to editors
European tests showed that vehicles running on petrol can produce up to 20.3 per cent more carbon dioxide than those running on LPG. In terms of oxides of nitrogen, which is equally as harmful to the environment and in particular to local air quality, it takes 20 LPG powered vehicles to produce the same amount as one diesel vehicle.

PM10s, or small particle, emissions, which have been singled out in road pollution studies as being particularly harmful to children and people with breathing disorders such as asthma, are also significantly reduced in vehicles running on Autogas; figures show 120 per cent less PM10 emissions than diesel vehicles. Even a small increase in the number of vehicles using Autogas instead of petrol or diesel could have a huge impact on the environment, given these figures.

AUTOGAS POISED TO SHED ‘ALTERNATIVE’ IMAGE

With fuel prices reaching astronomical levels, alternative fuel options are at the top of fleet managers’ agendas. However, the answer may not lie in futuristic technologies or far-fetched fuel developments, but on the UK’s existing forecourts.

Autogas liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, has been singled out as a viable alternative fuel and is readily available today for motorists to enjoy costs savings as well as environmental benefits.

The European Expert Group on Transport Fuels, established by the European Commission last March, has already stated that Autogas could increase from 3 per cent of the road fuel mix to at least ten per cent by 2020*

The Expert Group’s report, published on 25 January, notes that “LPG is currently the most widely used alternative fuel in Europe” adding that “the core infrastructure is established, with over 27,000 public filling stations”. Given this already existing presence, Autogas is well-placed to act as a bridge to help ease Europe’s transition to a more sustainable transport model.

Autogas Limited is the UK leading forecourt supplier of LPG. Their general manager, Jem Aldridge welcomes this report and says that the benefits of the cleaner fuel speak for themselves, but fleet managers may not be aware of how easy it is to switch to LPG. “Although Autogas is often referred to as an ‘alternative’ fuel, it really should be known as the third grade on the forecourt.

“Advances are being made in electric vehicles, but these remain limiting in terms of range and their ability to travel long distances. For high mileage users LPG is the most viable fuel compared to petrol or diesel.”

Jem goes on to explain how easy it is to specify an LPG fleet. “When considering fuel choices, a simple comparison between LPG, petrol and diesel will reveal significant results. Currently retailing at 76.3 pence per litre*, LPG offers huge savings.

“The environmental benefits are substantial too. Vehicles running on LPG produce far less carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions such as oxides of nitrogen and particulate matter (PM10’s) compared to other road fuels.”

Jem adds: “The initial cost of conversion is quickly recouped in the running cost savings and there is an established network of approved Autogas Installers that can carry out this work. Alternatively Citroën offer a LPG / petrol option of the Berlingo van under their Ready to Run Program and Mazda and Proton cars now offer Petrol / LPG options on some of their ranges.

Autogas is currently available at over 1,400 public access refuelling sites in the UK , with more planned openings this year. To help drivers find their nearest LPG station Autogas offers a free to download ‘Point of Interest’ file for leading satellite navigation systems. It is available online at www.autogasfinder.co.uk. There are also various smart phone apps that direct motorists to their nearest refuelling site.

For more information on how Autogas can benefit your fleet, log on to www.autogas.ltd.uk or call 01527 507 800

Notes to editors
* Figures quoted from the European Expert Group on Transport Fuels in its press release dated 27 January 2011, Autogas to Play a Larger Role in Europe’s Fuel Mix.
* Prices quoted from the AA’s Fuel Price Report, January 2011

MP OPENS UP GREENER MOTORING TO BARKING RESIDENTS

On Friday 5th November, The Rt. Hon Margaret Hodge MP will be introducing greener motoring to Barking’s motorists when The Barking Service Station Forecourt & Shop is officially opened.

The busy Barking Texaco Service Station on Ripple Road has been extensively redeveloped, and this Friday sees the culmination of four months’ work and £750,000 investment when the facilities are officially opened with a celebratory forecourt open day.

The Rt. Hon Margaret Hodge MP will be the guest of honour introducing local residents to a host of new services such as an extended and refitted SPAR shop, a new jet wash area, state of the art pumps and pipes, as well as the introduction of Autogas LPG.

As a viable, alternative to petrol and diesel, Autogas offers motorists savings of up to a third on fuel costs* and can dramatically reduce the impact driving has on the environment. Motorists interested in finding out more about how to save fuel costs and run cleaner, greener vehicles can meet the experts at the Barking Service Station open day this Friday.

Paul Oxford from Autogas explains the benefits for road users and the environment: “Vehicles running on LPG produce far less carbon dioxide, but they also emit far fewer of the other harmful emissions such as oxides of nitrogen and microscopic particles, known as PM10s, which are found in diesel and petrol and have a damaging effect on the environment.

“In fact vehicles running on LPG produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol. In terms of oxides of nitrogen, which is equally as harmful to the environment, Autogas delivers 120 per cent less than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel.

“PM10, or small particle, emissions, which have been singled out in road pollution studies as being particularly harmful to children and people suffering from Asthma, are significantly reduced in vehicles running on Autogas; figures show 120 per cent less PM10 emissions than diesel vehicles.

“But it is likely that the financial benefits of switching to LPG will be even more attractive to Barking residents. Fuel costs can be reduced by as much as 33 per cent and the conversion cost, usually around £1,800, can be recouped in less than two years*.”

Barking Service Station is located on the A13 West Bound, 3.5 miles from Canary Wharf, 3.4 miles from the City Airport and 2.9 miles from the O2 Arena. The Rt. Hon Margaret Hodge will be in attendance from 2:30pm. As the A13 is dual carriageway, motorists travelling from Docklands A406 should make a U-turn after passing the service station on the right.

- ENDS -

*41 per cent fuel costs calculated based on fuel costs taken from www.whatprice.co.uk 01/11/10, consumption figures taken from www.renault.co.uk for a 2.0 140 petrol Laguna Sport Tourer and assuming a 20% reduction in fuel consumption for LPG.

Notes to Editors:
- Autogas Limited
Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be done quickly and easily by an approved converter and costs around £1,800. Most petrol powered cars, and even light commercial vehicles, can be easily converted to run on LPG.
There are now more than 1,400 public access Autogas refuelling sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts. Autogas is the UK’s leading supplier with more than 200 refuelling sites and ambitious plans to expand the network further over the next year.
To help drivers find their nearest LPG service station Autogas offers a free to download ‘point of interest’ file for leading satellite navigation systems. Users can log onto www.autogasfinder.co.uk or www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/satnav to upload the Autogas locator file so that no matter where you they are in the UK they can find their nearest Autogas site.
- Barking Service Station
Kennford Limited acquired the Barking service station in 2007 and has invested in excess of £750,000 pounds on the redevelopment. This has confirmed the company’s Texaco franchise for a further 5 years and resulted in prominent branding on the forecourt including bins, advertising panels and a total new canopy.

Issued on behalf of Autogas by Connect PR
For further information, please contact Kathy Hodson
Connect PR, The Chubb Building, Fryer Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HT
Tel: 01902 714957 / 07890 381725
Email: Kathy@connect-group.com

Summer motoring in the South West boosted by Autogas

Motorists heading to the south west this summer could save up to a third on their fuel costs by converting to Autogas, which is now available at the Gordano services on the M5 motorway.

With many people still clutching tightly onto their purse strings, holidays are likely to take a hit again this year. But whilst the two week sojourn to the Maldives may be off the cards, or even a week in the Spanish Costas put off for at least another year, the UK holiday, or ‘staycation’ looks set to repeat its 2009 success.

The South West of England could benefit greatly from this trend again this summer with thousands heading to the region. Holidaymakers braving the M5 can find further ways to cut the cost of travelling thanks to the refurbishment of the Gordano services, located at the gateway to the South West, junction 19 of the M5.

As part of the refurbishment of the busy motorway services, Autogas has been installed at the Gordano forecourt. As a viable, alternative to petrol and diesel, Autogas offers motorists savings of more than a third on fuel costs* and can dramatically reduce the impact driving has on the environment.

Paul Oxford from Autogas explains the benefits for road users and the environment: “In the UK the popularity of LPG is increasing as motorists look to help the environment and cut fuel costs. Vehicles running on LPG produce far less carbon dioxide, but they also emit far fewer of the other harmful emissions such as oxides of nitrogen and microscopic particles, known as PM10s, which are found in diesel and petrol and have a damaging effect on the environment.

“In fact vehicles running on LPG produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol. In terms of oxides of nitrogen, which is equally as harmful to the environment, Autogas delivers 120 per cent less than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel.

“PM10, or small particle, emissions, which have been singled out in road pollution studies as being particularly harmful to children and people suffering from Asthma, are significantly reduced in vehicles running on Autogas; figures show 120 per cent less PM10 emissions than diesel vehicles.

“With 60,000 cars using the M5 every day, even a small increase in the number of vehicles using Autogas instead of petrol or diesel could have a huge impact.”

Paul adds: “LPG at Gordano services is currently retailing at 59.9 pence per litre compared to petrol at 126.9 pence per litre and 112.9 pence per litre for diesel**. As the differential between Autogas and other road fuels is greater now than it has ever been, the cost of conversion can be recouped even quicker.”

Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be done quickly and easily by an approved converter and costs around £1,800. Although surprisingly few manufacturers are currently producing LPG powered vehicles, most petrol powered cars, and even light commercial vehicles, can be easily converted to run on LPG.

There are now more than 1,400 public access Autogas refuelling sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts. Autogas is the UK’s leading supplier with more than 200 refuelling sites and ambitious plans to expand the network further over the next year.

To help drivers find their nearest LPG service station Autogas offers a free to download ‘point of interest’ file for leading satellite navigation systems. Users can log onto www.autogasfinder.co.uk or www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/satnav to upload the Autogas locator file so that no matter where you they are in the UK they can find their nearest Autogas site.

- ENDS -

*41 per cent fuel costs calculated based on fuel costs taken from www.whatprice.co.uk 07/07/10 for Gordano services, consumption figures taken from www.renault.co.uk for a 2.0 140 petrol Laguna Sport Tourer and assuming a 20% reduction in fuel consumption for LPG
**www.whatprice.couk (07/07/010)

Green Boost for Cumbernauld Motorists

Motorists in Cumbernauld will find it even easier to go green this week when Autogas LPG becomes available at the Shell Old Inns service station on Landsdowne Drive.

LPG is the most accessible alternative road fuel in the UK and offers both environmental and financial benefits for motorists.

Last year, a study reported by the BBC(1) found that children are at greatest risk from harmful small particles in traffic pollution. It highlighted that these microscopic particles, known as PM10s, can contribute to both environmental and health problems, and given that children breath air closer to the roadside than adults, they are most at risk.

LPG produces far fewer harmful PM10 particles than other road fuels, emitting up to 120 times less than diesel vehicles2. Added benefits include 17% less carbon dioxide emissions than petrol and 2% less than diesel, and 120 per cent less NOx than petrol and staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel.

Emma Bartle, from Autogas, the UK’s leading automotive liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplier, explains: “The introduction of LPG to Cumbernauld now means motorists can easily switch to a greener alternative motoring fuel, reducing roadside pollutants and improving air quality for the children in the area.

“Further advantages include cost savings as LPG currently retails at around half the price of petrol and diesel3. The cost of converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be recouped in under two years leaving motorists to enjoy ongoing savings on the cost of running a vehicle4.”

The new LPG refuelling site at Shell Old Ins M80 Wardpark is located in Cumbernauld Village off the A80.

LPG – AN ACCESSIBLE AND READILY AVAILABLE ALTERNATIVE FUEL
The total number of LPG stations in the UK is over 1,4005 and LPG availability is core to the company’s policy of delivering fuel to the thousands of LPG motorists.

Emma continues: “Autogas is committed to providing LPG customers with a wide-range of convenient and accessible service stations offering LPG. “With over 160,000 vehicles now being powered by LPG it’s vital we continually increase the number of available refuelling locations.

“Anyone thinking of converting their vehicle to run on LPG can be assured they will be no more than five6 miles away from an LPG service station in major conurbations, a figure which is continually monitored.

“Conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA Approved Installer who will comply with set safety standards, has undergone extensive training and examinations and can advise on the most suitable system for your vehicle.”

There are around 220 outlets currently supplied by Autogas in the UK and a full list can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk.

For further information on Autogas and how to convert your petrol vehicle to run on LPG, visit www.autogas.ltd.uk. Motorists can also follow Autogas on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AutogasLPG to learn about the latest site openings and company information.
- ends -
Notes to editors:
1 The original BBC report can be found at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8092182.stm
2 Small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken form the European Emissions Testing Programme 2003
3 www.petrolprices.com Average UK fuel prices for 8 March 2010: Petrol 114.3p, Diesel 115.3, LPG 61.5p.
4 Savings are based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from www.fleetnews.co.uk. In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: www.autogas.ltd.uk.
5 Source: UKLPG
6 Based on LPG forecourt availability within London/M25, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Nottingham, Leicester, Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Newcastle, Durham, Aberdeen

For further information, please contact:
Kathy Hodson. Connect PR. The Chubb Buildings, Fryer Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HT
Tel: 01902 714 957 / 07595 200 703
Email: kathy@connect-group.com

Greener motoring with Autogas LPG

Road pollution is a major concern for many people and councils across the country have implemented measures to try and reduce harmful emissions such as traffic calming, car sharing, congestion charging schemes and in some cases, areas prohibiting all traffic.

However, a far simpler way to reduce the pollution from road vehicles would be to switch to Liquid Petroleum Gas, or LPG, as Autogas’ Emma Bartle explains: “Motorists can rest assured that going green is made easy with LPG. It represents a realistic alternative to petrol and diesel, with more than 14.6 million vehicles worldwide making the most of its environmental and financial benefits.

“In the UK the popularity of LPG is increasing as motorists look to help the environment and reduce their carbon emissions. However, the environmental impact from road vehicles is far deeper than just CO2; vehicles running on LPG do produce far less carbon dioxide, but they also emit far fewer of the other harmful emissions such as oxides of nitrogen and microscopic particles, known as PM10s, which are found in diesel and petrol and have a damaging effect on the environment(1).”

By choosing to run an LPG-powered vehicle, as well as helping the environment, motorists can reap the benefits of using a cost-effective fuel by enjoying spending on average 40% less on fuel. And in most cases, the cost of conversion can be recovered in less than two years(2).

In addition, motorists in and around London can also apply for exemption from the congestion charge and all LPG vehicle owners can anticipate increased residual vehicle values.

There are now more than 1,400 public access LPG refuelling sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts. Autogas Limited, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. A full list can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk.

- Ends -

Notes to editors
Follow AutogasLPG on Twitter

(1) Vehicles running on LPG produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2 per cent less than diesel, but also 120 per cent less oxides of nitrogen than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel, and up to 120 times less small particle (PM10) emissions than diesel vehicles.

(2) Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be done quickly and easily by an approved converter and costs around £1,800. Based on current fuel prices and an annual mileage of 20,000 miles it would take around 22 months to recoup this initial cost. (Payback period equates to 22.03 months based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from www.fleetnews.co.uk.) In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: www.autogas.ltd.uk.

AUTOGAS – THE THIRD FUEL OF CHOICE FOR MOTORISTS

Autogas UK has welcomed comments from Inigo Palacio Prada, chairman of the Global Automotive Industry Network (GAIN), highlighting that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stands out as the ‘third fuel of choice for motorists’.

LPG represents a realistic alternative to petrol and diesel, with more than 14.6 million vehicles worldwide making the most of its financial and environmental benefits.

In an interview for Automotive Industries magazine(1), Inigo Palacio Prada explained how LPG not only saves money and reduces harmful emissions with no loss of engine performance but is also readily available right now, through the Autogas refuelling network – making it the third fuel of choice for motorists.

“Electric vehicles are no doubt going to emerge as an alternative to traditional automotive fuels at some stage in the future,” said Prada. “We must remember that Autogas can provide significant benefits over gasoline and diesel and is available here and now.”

Emma Bartle, spokesperson for Autogas Limited said: “We welcome the comments of Mr Prada, which echo our beliefs that LPG is the most accessible alternative to petrol and diesel currently available.

“Although electric vehicles are increasing in popularity, LPG is readily available right now, with a comprehensive refuelling network throughout the UK.

“Environmental concerns run deeper than just reducing CO2 emissions. Vehicles running on LPG do produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2 per cent less than diesel, but also 120 per cent less oxides of nitrogen than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel, and up to 120 times less small particle (PM10) emissions than diesel vehicles(2).

“All of these other pollutants should also be considered when trying to improve urban air quality.

“And, of course, drivers are already reaping the benefits of reduced motoring costs. Forecourt prices of LPG are typically half that of petrol or diesel, making it attractive to individuals and commercial operators, and LPG motorists can benefit from up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge as well as lower company car tax or vehicle excise duty.”

Autogas is the UK’s leading supplier of LPG, with more than 200 refuelling sites and ambitious plans to expand the network further over the next year.To help drivers find their nearest LPG service station Autogas, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, offers a free to download ‘point of interest’ file for leading satellite navigation systems. Users can log onto www.autogasfinder.co.uk or www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/satnav to upload the Autogas locator file so that no matter where you they are in the UK they can find their nearest Calor Autogas site.

GAIN is the network set up by the World LP Gas Association to promote Autogas to consumers and governments worldwide.

For further information on fuel supplies and bulk tank installation, contact Calor on 0800 216 659 or visit www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk.

ENDS

1 Automotive Industries magazine, September 2009
2 Small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken form the EETP 2003


Notes to Editors
- There are around 1,400 public access vehicle refuelling sites in the UK in addition to which many businesses have their own “bunkered” facilities.

- LPG powered vehicles listed on the Powershift register can gain up to 100 per cent discounts and exemptions from the London congestion charge

- There are around 150,000 LPG vehicles on UK roads

- Finding your nearest Calor Autogas refuelling site couldn't be simpler – a file of retail sites is available for downloaded from the Autogas web site (www.autogasfinder.co.uk)

- A savings calculator can be found on www.autogas.ltd.uk

LPG Boost for High Performance Vehicles

There is a commonly held view that running a car on LPG can reduce acceleration and power. But try telling that to one of the UK’s quickest drivers, British Touring Car Championship star Tom Onslow-Cole, who, with the help of Calor has set the record straight once and for all.

Leading LPG supplier Calor has always acknowledged the benefits of Autogas LPG for high performance cars, but now the theory has really been put to the test. Working together with Approved Installers Prins, Calor has converted a 2 litre Honda Civic Type R to run on Autogas with fantastic results.

Tom Onslow-Cole, who is often seen on the BTCC podium, took the Type R for a spin on the race track, with amazing results.

Tom said: “I was taken aback by the performance of the converted Type R. It handled superbly as you’d expect, but the response of the engine increased.

“The overall performance of the car was better and more powerful, making it a far better track car than I could have imagined. I was really impressed with the car, which was extremely quick around the track. ”

Not only has the performance of the Honda improved, it has been consistently delivering combined consumption figures of 28 mpg when running on LPG. Compared to the manufacturer’s quoted combined figure of 31mpg for its unmodified version, and given that LPG is currently retailing at under half the price of petrol*, the converted Honda has delivered a saving of over 42 per cent, without any noticeable changes to its performance.

Click here to see a video of Calor's LPG Honda in action trackside

Autogas Wins 'Green' Award

Green motoring has been given a boost this week as the UK’s leading liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplier for the automotive market, Autogas, was awarded the national title of Alternative Fuel Supplier of the Year.

GreenFleet presented the accolade to highlight the company’s delivery and commitment to providing a reliable and readily available alternative fuel for the nation’s motorists. Vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels and LPG vehicles produce 17% less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2% less than diesel.

In addition to its environmental benefits, LPG can also cut the cost of motoring as LPG currently retails at around half the price of petrol and diesel* and offers up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge.

Autogas Limited’s National Marketing Coordinator, Emma Bartle, says the case for LPG is continually gaining momentum with the ongoing trend for greener products coupled with the financial benefits for drivers.

Emma explains: “We have seen more and more people switching to LPG mainly due to the desire to be more environmentally aware and, of course, the cost savings LPG can offer.

“Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be done quickly and easily by an approved converter and costs around £1,800. Based on current fuel prices and an annual mileage of 20,000 miles it would take around 22 months to recoup this initial cost**.”

In 2008, 19 new companies joined the LPGA ‘approved installers’ scheme meaning a total of 192 approved installers are now available for drivers to modify their vehicles to run on LPG. In addition to this increase in approved installers, motorists now have over 1,400 LPG stations across the UK to fuel over 160,000 vehicles now being powered by LPG.

Emma adds: “LPG is by far the most widely available alternative fuel available in the UK, so drivers will not be far from an LPG station. Our handy fuel locator booklets and downloadable files for SatNavs ensure motorists can easily find their nearest LPG refueling station. What’s more motorists have the added flexibility and peace of mind knowing that their vehicle is ‘dual fuel’ meaning it can also run on petrol.”

For further information on fuel supplies and bulk tank installation, contact Autogas Limited on 01527 507800 or visit www.autogas.ltd.uk.

Ends

Notes to editors
Calor and Autogas advise that conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA Approved Installer and, as there are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK, it is easy to find your nearest specialist – a full list of Approved Installers can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk/lpg-conversion/lpg-vehicle-conversion.htm.

* Petrol, diesel and LPG prices taken from www.petrolprices.com (08.10.09)


Unleaded:
Avg. 105.1p
Min. 101.8p
Max. 117.9p
Diesel:
Avg. 106.1p
Min. 101.9p
Max. 118.9p
LPG:
Avg. 55.2p
Min. 47.9p
Max. 60.9

** Calculation assumes conversion fee of £1,800 including VAT with an annual mileage of 20,000 miles. Payback period equates to 22.03 months based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from www.fleetnews.co.uk. In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: www.autogas.ltd.uk.

PETROL PRICES CONTINUE TO SOAR - HAS THERE EVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO SWITCH TO LPG?

As the volatility of petrol prices continues and the introduction of an additional two pence per litre tax looms, motorists should consider converting to LPG to enjoy savings of up to 37 per cent(1).

Having started the year positively with petrol prices as low as 85 pence per litre, motorists once again face rapidly rising prices at the pumps as unleaded fuel prices continue to rise.

Prices have slowly been creeping up over the last few months, once again breaking the £1 barrier with a peak of 103.9 pence per litre in early July and threatening to reach last year’s peak of 118 pence per litre. National average prices currently stand at 102.5 pence per litre(2) and the Government will be imposing its additional two pence a litre tax on pump prices on 1 September.

Autogas Limited’s National Marketing Coordinator, Emma Bartle, says the case for LPG has always been strong but more and more people are realising its financial benefits as well as recognising its environmental credentials.

Emma explains: “LPG currently retails at around half the price of petrol and diesel(3) and we have seen more and more people switching to LPG mainly due to reduced payback periods, the desire to be more environmentally aware and, of course, the cost savings LPG can offer.

“Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be done quickly and easily by an approved converter and costs around £1,800. Based on current fuel prices and an annual mileage of 20,000 miles it would take around 22 months to recoup this initial cost(4).”

LPG is by far the most widely available alternative fuel available in the UK. Vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels. LPG vehicles produce 17 per cent less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2 per cent less than diesel; 120% less NOx than petrol and a staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel; and up to 120 times less small particle (PM10) emissions than diesel vehicles5.

Although LPG achieves slightly fewer miles per gallon than petrol or diesel, the cost of refilling far outweighs any shortfall and there is no noticeable loss of power or performance. LPG vehicles can also benefit from up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge.

For further information on fuel supplies and bulk tank installation, contact Calor on 0800 216 659 or visit www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk.

Notes to Editors
There are now more than 1,400 public access sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts.

Autogas Limited, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. A full list can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk. In addition, Calor supplies autogas from over 150 outlets through its Calor Centres, Morrisons supermarkets and other independent sites. Details of the Calor supplied sites can be found at www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk .

To make it even easier to find your nearest LPG refuelling site, Autogas offers a free to download point of interest file for leading satellite navigation systems. Users can log onto www.autogasfinder.co.uk or www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/satnav to upload the Autogas locator file so that no matter where you are in the UK you can find your nearest Calor Autogas site.

Calor and Autogas advise that conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA Approved Installer and, as there are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK, it is easy to find your nearest specialist – a full list of Approved Installers can be found at http://www.autogas.ltd.uk/lpg-conversion/lpg-vehicle-conversion.htm.

1 Savings are based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from www.fleetnews.co.uk. In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: www.autogas.ltd.uk.

2 www.fleetnews.co.uk

3 www.fleetnews.co.uk: Prices correct at 10.08.09
Petrol 102.5 pence per litre
LPG 51.5 pence per litre

4 Calculation assumes conversion fee of £1,800 including VAT with an annual mileage of 20,000 miles. Payback period equates to 22.03 months based on calculation for Renault Laguna above.

5 Small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken form the European Emissions Testing Programme 2003

The following LPG powered vehicles are available for road testing:

Saab 93 saloon Linear SE 1.8 manual
Saab 93 estate Linear 1.8 manual
Renault Laguna Expression Sport Tourer 2.0 manual
Vauxhall Astra 1.4 sxi estate manual
Vauxhall Astra 1.4 sxi 5 door hatch
Renault Megane Sport 2.0 manual 225 5 door hatch
Vauxhall Insignia 1.8 Exclusive 5 door Hatch
Honda Civic Type R

UK Holidaymakers Could Save Fuel Costs This Summer

The number of vehicles on the UK’s roads is set to rise this summer as many holidaymakers opt to stay in the UK instead of venturing abroad. However the price of petrol continues to rise making more people consider switching to LPG.

Chris Taylor, Autogas development executive at LPG supplier Calor, explains: “The strength of the Euro and the favourable weather forecast for August have influenced our decision to stay in the UK, but the credit crunch seems to be the main reason we are choosing to holiday closer to home.

“Whilst a UK break is considered a cheaper option than travelling abroad, the cost of petrol and diesel is already well over £1.00 per litre and set to increase further through the summer. meaning getting to our destination may not be as cheap as we hope. However, Midlands motorists could be saving even more money on their holiday this year by converting to LPG.”

Take, for example, a journey from Birmingham to Brighton. The cost of travelling the 180 mile journey could be up to 37 per cent less expensive in an LPG powered vehicle(1).

In a petrol-fuelled Vauxhall Insignia 2.0l estate, the return journey would cost an average of £46.34 whereas in a similar LPG powered vehicle, the cost of fuel could be as low as £28.66.

More and more people are now realising the benefits of LPG which, in addition to reduced fuel costs, also include lower CO2 and NOx emissions and lower emissions of harmful PM10 particles(2), as well as up to 100% exemption from the London congestion charge and increased residual values.

In 2008, the number of LPG conversions carried out by LPGA Approved Installers rose by 36 per cent from 2007 - the highest number of conversions in five years. The total number of LPG vehicles on the UK’s roads now stands at around 155,000.

Chris adds: “LPG is by far the most widely available alternative fuel available in the UK. Motorists running LPG vehicles can save up to 40 per cent on fuel costs(3) and, in many cases, can recover the cost of a conversion in under two years(4).

“Given the rise in popularity of LPG, the number of refuelling sites is also increasing. There are now more than 1,400 public access sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts.”

Autogas Limited, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. A full list can be found at http://www.autogas.ltd.uk/. In addition, Calor supplies autogas from over 150 outlets through its Calor Centres, Morrisons supermarkets and other independent sites. A full list of all sites supplied by Calor can be found at http://www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/ .

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NOTES TO EDITORS

1 Costs calculated for Vauxhall Insignia 2.0l estate using average combined mpg figures quoted by manufacturer on http://www.vauxhall.co.uk/ assuming a reduction of 20% for LPG and fuel prices taken from http://www.fleetnews.co.uk/ as of 21 July 2009.

2 LPG vehicles produce 17% less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2% less than diesel, 120 per cent less NOx than petrol and staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel. In terms of small particle emissions (PM10) one LPG vehicle will emit up to 120 times less than a diesel vehicle. Small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken form the European Emissions Testing Programme 2003

3 Savings are based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from www.petrolprices.com and a typical onsite bulk LPG price of 45.6p per litre including duty and VAT (Prices as at 09 April 2009). In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: http://www.autogas.ltd.uk/.

4 Calculations based on fuel costs taken from http://www.fleetnews.co.uk/ 11/05/09, consumption figures taken from http://www.whatcar.co.uk/ for a 2.0 petrol Vauxhall Insignia Estate and assuming a 20% reduction in fuel consumption for LPG. Calculation assumes conversion fee of £1,800 including VAT with an annual mileage of 20,000 miles. Payback period equates to 23.34 months.

The following LPG powered vehicles are available for road testing:

Saab 93 saloon Linear SE 1.8 manual
Saab 93 estate Linear 1.8 manual
Renault Laguna Expression Sport Tourer 2.0 manual
Vauxhall Astra 1.4 sxi estate manual
Vauxhall Astra 1.4 sxi 5 door hatch
Renault Megane Sport 2.0 manual 225 5 door hatch
Vauxhall Insignia 1.8 Exclusive 5 door Hatch
Honda Civic Type R

HARMFUL PARTICLES IDENTIFIED IN STUDY CAN BE CUT WITH LPG

The news unveiled by the BBC this week that children are at greater risk from harmful small particles in traffic pollution will have alarmed many motorists. However, the situation could be vastly improved with greater use of LPG technology.

Vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels including the microscopic particles, known as PM10s, cited in the study led by Professor Jonathan Grigg at the Centre for Paediatrics at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

LPG vehicles emit up to 120 times less PM10 particles than a diesel vehicle (small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken form the European Emissions Testing Programme 2003). Added benefits include 17% less carbon dioxide emissions than petrol and 2% less than diesel, and 120 per cent less NOx than petrol and staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel.

As reported by the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8092182.stm), early findings from the study in London show that the lung capacity of 8 and 9 year olds is up to five per cent lower than the national average. This is likely to be caused by the fact that the situation is worst at roadside level – a similar height to young children.

Autogas Development Executive at LPG supplier Calor, Chris Taylor, says replacing petrol and diesel vehicles with LPG-powered alternatives could help reduce the severity of the situation.

He says: “We have always known that Autogas LPG is a viable alternative to petrol and diesel and a much greener fuel. The recent study confirms that PM10 particles are extremely harmful and can lead to respiratory disorders such as asthma in children and more serious conditions in later life.

“The number of LPG vehicles is travelling in the right direction. In 2008 we saw an increase of 36 per cent in the number of LPG conversions carried out year on year. There are now around 155,000 LPG vehicles on the UK’s roads.”

The rise in popularity of LPG Autogas is also due to the cost savings that can be enjoyed. Motorists running LPG vehicles can expect to save up to 40 per cent on fuel costs* and, in many cases, can recover the cost of a conversion in under two years**.

Motorists in and around London can also benefit from up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge and all LPG vehicle owners can expect increased residual vehicle values.

There are now more than 1,400 public access LPG refuelling sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts. Autogas Limited, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. A full list can be found at www.autogas.ltd.uk. In addition, Calor supplies autogas from over 150 outlets through its Calor Centres, Morrisons supermarkets and other independent sites.
For further information on fuel supplies and bulk tank installation, contact Calor on 0800 216 659 or visit www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk.

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Notes to Editors

* Calculations based on fuel costs taken from www.fleetnews.co.uk 11/05/09, consumption figures taken from www.whatcar.co.uk for a 2.0 petrol Vauxhall Insignia Estate and assuming a 20% reduction in fuel consumption for LPG. Calculation assumes conversion fee of £1,800 including VAT with an annual mileage of 20,000 miles. Payback period equates to 23.34 months.

** Savings are based on official combined consumption figures published on www.renault.co.uk for 2.0 16V Laguna Sport Tourer assuming a 20% reduction for LPG. National average fuel prices taken from http://www.petrolprices.com/ and a typical onsite bulk LPG price of 45.6p per litre including duty and VAT (Prices as at 09 April 2009). In order to calculate potential fuel savings, Autogas has made a savings calculator available on its web site: www.autogas.ltd.uk.

AUTOGAS CONVERSIONS UP 36 PER CENT

The number of automotive LPG conversions carried out has increased dramatically as more people realise its cost and environmental benefits.

In 2008, 17,000 LPG conversions were carried out by LPGA Approved Installers – an increase of 36 per cent on 2007’s figures and the highest number of conversions in five years. The total number of LPG vehicles on the UK’s roads now stands at around 155,000.

Calor’s Autogas Development Executive, Chris Taylor, says the considerable increase is due to a range of factors, including cost savings to run an LPG vehicle, reduced payback periods and the desire to be more environmentally aware.

Commenting on the figures released today, he says: “LPG is by far the most widely available alternative fuel available in the UK. Motorists running LPG vehicles can expect to save up to 40 per cent on fuel costs1 and, in many cases, can recover the cost of a conversion in under two years2.

“The increase in conversions is good for business too as we’re seeing an increase in the number of installers seeking LPGA approval.”

Added benefits of running a vehicle on LPG can include up to 100 per cent exemption from the London Congestion Charge and increased residual vehicle values. The environmental benefits weigh up too as vehicles running on LPG produce far fewer harmful emissions that contribute to environmental and health problems than traditional road fuels. LPG vehicles produce 17% less carbon dioxide than petrol and 2% less than diesel, 120 per cent less NOx than petrol and staggering 2,000 per cent less than diesel and in terms of small particle emissions (PM10) one LPG vehicle will emit up to 120 times less than a diesel vehicle3.

Chris adds: “Given the rise in popularity of LPG, the number of refuelling sites is also increasing. There are now more than 1,400 public access sites with the majority of these on petrol forecourts.”

Autogas Limited, a joint venture between Calor and Shell, currently supplies around 220 outlets in the UK. A full list can be found at http://www.autogas.ltd.uk/. In addition, Calor supplies autogas from over 150 outlets through its Calor Centres, Morrisons supermarkets and other independent sites.

Chris concludes: “Although the number of miles per gallon achieved with LPG is slightly lower than petrol or diesel, the cost of refilling far outweighs any shortfall and there is no noticeable loss of power or performance.”

Calor and Autogas advise that conversions should always be carried out by an LPGA Approved Installer and, as there are around 200 outlets currently registered in the UK, it is easy to find your nearest specialist – a full list of Approved Installers can be found at http://www.autogas.ltd.uk/lpg-conversion/lpg-vehicle-conversion.htm

For further information on fuel supplies and bulk tank installation, contact Calor on 0800 216 659 or visit http://www.lpg-vehicles.co.uk/.

For more information contact Kathy Hodson on 01902 714957 or email kathy@connect-group.com