LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) conversion is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce your fuel bills if you're a high-mileage driver. With LPG typically costing 40-50% less per litre than petrol in the United Kingdom, the savings can be substantial — but there are important factors to consider before committing.
What is LPG Conversion?
LPG conversion involves installing a supplementary LPG tank and fuel system alongside your existing petrol tank, creating a dual-fuel vehicle. You can switch between petrol and LPG at the flick of a dashboard switch. Most modern petrol cars can be converted using certified aftermarket kits.
How Much Does Conversion Cost?
Expect to pay between £1,500 and £3,000 for a professional LPG conversion, depending on your vehicle type and the kit used. A 4-cylinder petrol engine is the cheapest to convert. V6, V8 and turbocharged engines cost more due to complexity. Some insurers offer discounts for LPG-converted vehicles — check with your provider.
What Are The Savings?
Assuming LPG at £0.70/litre vs petrol at £1.45/litre, a driver covering 12,000 miles per year in a car achieving 35 MPG would save approximately £800-£1,000 annually. Payback period: 2-4 years. Drivers covering 8,000 miles per year would save £500-£700, with a payback of 3-5 years.
Practical Considerations
- LPG station availability: There are around 1,500 LPG stations in the UK. Coverage is good in England but patchy in Scotland and Wales.
- Fuel economy: LPG has lower energy density — expect ~20% lower MPG on LPG vs petrol.
- MOT and servicing: LPG systems require annual checks. Find a specialist installer near you.
- Resale value: Some buyers are wary of converted vehicles. Ensure you keep all installation paperwork.
Is LPG Right for You?
If you drive more than 8,000 miles per year and have access to LPG stations, conversion is very likely worthwhile. Use our LPG price tracker to check current autogas prices, and our fuel cost calculator to model your exact savings based on your mileage.
For more information, see our fuel saving tips and compare LPG with petrol prices on our live fuel price tracker.