LAND Rover is in the process of compiling a list of approved liquefied petroleum gas conversion specialists as it prepares to launch a V8 petrol version of the Discovery Commercial next year.

The Ford-owned company expects virtually all customers to convert the V8 models to run on LPG to ensure running costs are kept to acceptable levels.

Land Rover was working on selecting a network of Land Rover-approved LPG conversion companies before it was sold to Ford by BMW in June 2000.

The new Land Rover Discovery Commercial using the new Td5 engine was launched at this year's Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham.

It is based on the standard five-door Discovery but uses black security glass in the rear compartment, and has a load area instead of rear seats. The V8 model will use the 4.0-litre petrol engine from the Discovery station wagon, which only manages 17mpg combined, but an LPG conversion would significantly increase its range and reduce fuel costs.

A Land Rover spokesman said: 'We will offer the V8 version some time next year, but we think LPG conversions will be popular, and will give our customers the equivalent of about 35mpg.'