Of course you can't simply use LPG in a vehicle that is accustomed to taking petroleum. Consequently, LPG conversion is seen as a straightforward and cost effective way of altering a petrol vehicle to run on LPG.

The process is straightforward but should be carried out by an INSTALATII GPL approved garage. All approved installers should make sure the right system and installer are used for your car and should carry out a conversion based on safety, environmental impact, reliability and value for money.

You will need to have significant space for the LPG tank - which is often fitted into the boot of the vehicle, sometimes in the spare wheel well. Some dashboards will be fitted with a device allowing you to switch between LPG and petroleum, while the refuelling point will be placed near to the existing petroleum refuelling point.

LPG has significant environmental and financial benefits as outlined below:

- Reduces carbon emissions - By converting to LPG you can automatically reduce your environmental impact as the amount of carbon dioxide your vehicle produces decreases. Compared to most petroleum vehicles, LPG vehicles produce 20% less CO2.

- Other environmental benefits - Even though LPG vehicles have similar CO2 output to diesel cars, they do have other advantages. They are much quieter than diesel engines, LPG quickly evaporates if a spillage occurs and produces fewer particulates and nitrogen oxides.

- Price at the pump - The Government has shown significant support for LPG with low duty by comparison to petrol and diesel. As a result LPG is substantially cheaper at the pumps than petrol and diesel. It is estimated that a high mileage driver can save as much as 40% of their fuel costs with LPG compared to petrol, and 20% compared to diesel.

- Congestion charges/road tax - Cars that run on LPG qualify for reduced taxation as they fit into lower tax bands. Many LPG vehicles are also exempt from congestion charges such as those in the city of London, Richmond and Westminster.

There are some disadvantages to consider too, before you decide if LPG conversion is right for you:

- Initial cost - It is important to have a fully trained LPG conversion specialist carry out the installation on your car.

- Servicing/insurance costs - The LPG fuel system will need servicing at approximately 12,000 miles or typically once a year. Overall, these costs should be less than a typical diesel engine. You should also consider your insurance costs, as some insurance companies may charge an excess for an LPG approved conversion (others will not).

- Mileage range/petrol stations - Not all petrol stations sell LPG, though the number is increasing. Typically you will not be able to travel as far on a full tank of LPG as you would on a full tank of petrol. However, with the petrol tank usually left in place during a conversion you can always use petrol as a back-up.

- Warranties - Bear in mind that your manufacturer's warranty could be affected by an LPG conversion.