LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a fuel made from propane and butane, stored under pressure as a liquid. In vehicles it is called autogas and produces around 15–20% less CO2 than petrol. It is available at around 1,400 UK filling stations and typically costs 40–60p per litre less than unleaded petrol.

Alternative Fuels LPG

What is LPG gas?

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LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a flammable fuel made up of propane and butane that is stored as a liquid under pressure and used in vehicles, home heating, and cooking. In the UK, autogas is the vehicle-grade form of LPG and is available at around 1,400 filling stations nationwide.

What LPG Is Made Of

Propane and butane blend: LPG is a mixture of propane and butane, both of which are by-products of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. The exact blend varies by season and region. 2

Stored as a liquid: Although LPG is a gas at room temperature, it is compressed into liquid form for storage and transport, making it energy-dense and practical as a vehicle fuel. 2

Known as autogas in vehicles: When used as a road fuel, LPG is commonly called autogas. It is dispensed from dedicated pumps and requires a vehicle with either a factory-fitted or aftermarket LPG conversion.

LPG vs Petrol and Diesel

Lower CO2 emissions: LPG produces around 15–20% less CO2 per kilometre than petrol and significantly lower particulate emissions than diesel, making it a cleaner option for internal combustion engines. 3

Cheaper per litre: LPG typically costs 40–60p per litre less than unleaded petrol at UK forecourts, though LPG engines use slightly more fuel per mile due to its lower energy density. 1

Reduced range per tank: Because LPG has about 80% of the energy content of petrol by volume, expect roughly 20% more fill-ups compared to an equivalent petrol vehicle.

LPG and the UK's Fuel Future

A transitional fuel: The UK government's Transport Decarbonisation Plan focuses on electrification as the long-term solution, meaning LPG is viewed as a transitional lower-emission option rather than a permanent alternative. 3

Electric vehicles are the target: The Energy Saving Trust highlights EVs as the primary low-carbon road transport solution. LPG suits drivers who cannot yet switch to electric but want lower running costs and emissions. 4

Finding LPG Near You

LPG stations are less common: LPG pumps are available at a fraction of UK forecourts compared to petrol and diesel, so planning your fill-up in advance is essential. 1

Check live prices before you travel: CheckFuelPrices lists LPG stations alongside petrol and diesel prices, so you can find the nearest autogas pump and compare costs in one search. 1