LPG cars’ greenhouse emissions are about 15 per cent less than in petrol cars. LPG costs about half the price of petrol and Federal Government incentives can take up to $4000 off the car’s price, depending on the model.

As a gas, LPG doesn’t produce land and water pollution and Australia has an abundant supply of LPG. There are negatives though. LPG is less efficient than petrol. For example: an LPG Falcon uses 15.1L/100km compared with 10.7L/100km for the petrol model. LPG versions are also more expensive than their petrol equivalents - the Ford minimally so ($1400) but for the LPG-powered Commodore the price difference is almost $4000.

The Age 31 March 2008