Autogas
LP Gas is the preferred alternative automotive transportation fuel. Autogas is today the most accepted alternative fuel in the automotive sector with more than 13 million vehicles operating worldwide. The added value of LPG as an automotive fuel is that it generates considerably fewer emissions than other fossil fuels, contributing to the protection of the environment and human health while also mitigating the threat of climate change.
Autogas offers drivers an alternative to conventional fuels. Furthermore, its particular characteristics, both as a fuel and an industry, make it ideally suited to the contemporary energy and environmental paradigm in which the world faces the challenge of balancing the diverse imperatives of security, sustainability, competitiveness.
In many countries worldwide it is the leading alternative fuel. It makes significant and ongoing contribution to improved environment outcomes in road transport – in greenhouse abatement and reduced pollution levels.
Autogas engine fuel systems are fitted with safety devices and shut-off valves that function automatically if the fuel line ruptures. Vehicle tanks are constructed from carbon steel and are 20 times more puncture resistant than a typical gasoline, methanol or ethanol tank. New types of specific Autogas cylinders are manufactured with a device that shuts off the filling process when the tank reaches 80 percent of its liquid capacity, allowing for temperature related changes in fuel volume without any release of gas from the tank.
Environmental Benefits of Autogas
- Within an LP Gas molecule there is a Hydrogen: Carbon ratio lower than most hydrocarbon fuels. This means that LP Gas emits less CO2 than other hydrocarbon fuels when in combustion
- A reduction of 10-12% in CO2 emissions has been calculated in a petrol powered car in an identical engine
- Progress is expected soon in spark ignition engines as engine manufacturers are downsizing and producing charged, efficient and lighter engines. These will all be comparable in performance despite the fuel consumption decrease
- New types of spark ignition engines are being built and will comprise of hybrid or mild hybrid systems. They will accept Autogas and will further reduce CO2 emissions
- Health Benefits of LP Gas of Autogas
A study by the WLPGA that explores and compares the health impacts on society caused by pollutants emitted by a range of commonly used fuels both in indoor domestic applications and in outdoor applications.
By releasing fewer harmful pollutants when used as a domestic and automotive fuel source LP Gas is not only a cleaner alternative but also a healthy one.
Motor vehicle pollution has severe adverse health impacts on the community, especially for people living in urban areas or in locations close to busy roads. Autogas emits significantly fewer harmful gasses such as CO2, NOx, and particulate matters (PM)* in comparison with other traditional automotive fuels.
AUTOGAS FACTS
- Autogas has the lowest flammability range of any alternative fuel.
- Autogas leaks are easily detected because an odorant is added as a safety measure.
- Autogas is a nontoxic, nonpoisonous fuel that doesn't contaminate aquifers or soil.
- Autogas with air won't ignite unless the source of ignition reaches at least 940 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, gasoline's source of ignition must reach only 430 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit before igniting.
- If Autogas leaks, it doesn't puddle; it readily dissipates into the air
© World LP Gas Association (WLPGA)
