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Almost all unleaded petrol-fuelled vehicles can (subject to space limitations) be converted to LPG Autogas operation at a reasonable cost. Systems range in price from about $2,000 to $4,500 installed, depending on the type of vehicle, type of system and additional options. A kit listing in our products section of suitable vehicles is now available. ( Note: This is not a complete list and will change as we receive more information from LPG equipment suppliers. Use this list only as a guide and consult your installer/equipment supplier for the most up-to-date information).
The much lower cost of Autogas compared to unleaded petrol ( typically half the price or less) means the cost of conversion is quickly paid back. For example if over the course of a year Autogas averaged 63.9 cents per litre, while unleaded petrol averaged $1.40 per litre, a six cylinder car driver traveling 25,000 kilometres a year on Autogas would save $1,918 , the equivalent of $37 per week. Assuming the system cost $2,500 to install, it would take just 16 months to pay for itself.
Autogas systems fitted by an installer after new vehicle purchase are generally warranted by the installer and the equipment supplier. The terms and conditions of the warranty vary so you should check these before purchase. Extended warranty period options are now available through some installers.
The Industry Association ( LPG Australia) has issued a code of practise for fitting LPG equipment to a motor vehicle and you should ask your installer if he follows the principles set out in the Code.
Dual-fuel Autogas systems allow the vehicle to operate on either LPG or unleaded petrol. This can almost double the vehicles range. The petrol tank still remains in the car and the driver can switch from gas to petrol or vice-versa.
Running your engine on Autogas is beneficial to your car. LPG is a cleaner burning fuel than petrol, so engine life is actually extended. Engine oil and spark plugs need changing less often when running on Autogas, so service intervals can be increased.
The time taken to install an Autogas system varies depending on a number of factors including tank options, the number of cylinders and so on. A typical family sedan with a single boot-mounted tank should take one to two days, whilst a large four-wheel drive with multiple tanks might take two to three days.
Your insurance company should be informed of the modification to Autogas, and you should ask them to revise the sum insured to reflect the cost of the system.
You should note that any vehicle compliance-plated after December 2003 that is converted to run on Autogas must be fitted with a system that has passed current emissions test standards.
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