Liquefied Petroleum Gas, aka LPG , is more democratized than ever and when it comes to doing the math, it can be the most economical option for many drivers. But regardless, LPG is a fuel that continues to raise doubts and there are myths that continue to persist.
Although there are many doubts and myths around LPG, the truth is that it has not been an impediment to a presence with some weight in the national market, whose low price per liter — on average, it is half the price per liter of diesel — is a strong argument for those looking to combine many kilometers with a more affordable fuel bill.
As for the doubts and myths, we will answer them all as: Does the deposit explode in the event of a collision? Does LPG steal power from the engine? Can they be parked in underground car parks?
LPG vehicles are not safe. FALSE.
One of the biggest myths surrounding LPG is related to its safety, as cars powered by this fuel have gained a reputation that they are unsafe and that they can explode in the event of an accident.LPG is effectively highly explosive and more flammable than gasoline. But precisely because of that, LPG fuel tanks are very robust — much more so than gasoline or diesel tanks — and comply with tests that simulate the most extreme conditions.
Even in the event of a vehicle fire, the LPG tank is equipped with devices to evacuate the fuel under pressure, in order to avoid a catastrophic rupture of the tank.
Remember that when LPG kits are not factory-installed, subject to the manufacturer's strict safety criteria, they are the responsibility of duly accredited entities that respect an international protocol, which is then confirmed in an Extraordinary Inspection.
Does LPG “steal” power from the engine? TRUE, but…
In the past, yes, it was noticeable a power loss — 10% to 20% — when the engines “ran” on LPG. Despite even having more octane than gasoline — 100 octane against 95 or 98 — LPG's energy density by volume is lower, the main reason for the loss of power.
Nowadays, with the latest LPG injection systems, the loss of power, even if it exists, will be negligible and hardly detectable by the driver..
Damage the engines of cars? FALSE.
This is another “urban” myth that accompanies any conversation that has the GPL Auto as its theme. But the truth is that LPG is a fuel with less impurities than gasoline, so its use can have the opposite effect: increase the durability of some components. LPG does not cause, for example, carbon deposits in the engine.That said, the cleaning action of LPG can uncover slacks or oil leaks when converting engines with many kilometers accumulated and that are not in their best condition, as it can eliminate the carbon deposits that would otherwise be “hiding” those problems.
LPG car consumes more than a gasoline car? REAL.
Using LPG, it is normal to register a higher consumption. That is, the cost of the number of liters per hundred kilometers will always be higher than the value of liters of gasoline needed to cover the same distance — between one and two liters seems to be the norm.
However, and if we take the calculator, we quickly realize that the difference in price between the two fuels not only outweighs this but allows for a saving of around 40% on the euros spent if we use LPG.
Better for the environment? REAL.
As it is composed of refined particles, LPG does not release harmful particles into the atmosphere and emits significantly less carbon monoxide: around 50% of what is emitted by gasoline and around 10% of what is emitted by diesel.
Also in terms of CO2 emissions, a car powered by LPG has an advantage, allowing an average reduction of 15% compared to a car running only on gasoline.
Supplies. Is it mandatory to wear gloves? FALSE, but…
Currently, there are more than 340 gas stations using LPG in the country and the refueling process is simple and fast, almost like that of a gasoline or diesel car.However, and since the gas is at a negative temperature, it is necessary to take a series of precautions during filling, the use of gloves is recommended. The use of tall gloves during fueling is extremely important, as they increase the skin's protection from frostbite. However, they are not mandatory.
Can I park in an underground car park? TRUE, but…
Since 2013, any LPG vehicle that meets the requirements of an Extraordinary Inspection can park without any limitation in underground parking lots or closed garages.
However, LPG-powered vehicles whose components have not been approved and installed in accordance with Ordinance No. 207-A/2013 of 25 June cannot park in closed parks or in places below ground level. The fines for this infraction vary between 250 and 1250 euros.
Is blue GPL badge mandatory? FALSE, but…
Since 2013, the use of the blue badge on the rear of cars converted to original LPG is no longer mandatory, having been replaced by a small green sticker — this one mandatory — pasted in the lower right corner of the windscreen. The lack of this identifying sticker can “render” a fine ranging between 60 and 300 euros.
Still, if the LPG vehicle in question was converted before June 11, 2013, it needs to continue to display the blue badge. However, you can always “apply” for the green sticker.
To obtain the green sticker, you must secure a certificate for the installed equipment from an accredited installer/repairer and pass a Type B inspection at an Automotive Inspection Center, which costs 110 euros. After that, it is still necessary to send the type B inspection certificate and the certificate of the accredited workshop to the IMTT, as well as request the endorsement of the annotation “GPL — Reg. 67”.