THE autogas market in the UK has grown in the past five years from 3,000 vehicles to 100,000, representing the most rapid increase in Europe.

Speaking at the hand-over of the 100,000th LPG vehicle – to facilities company OCS - energy Minister Brian Wilson said: 'My support for LPG is founded on its environmental benefits and the necessity to increase low carbon transport. A fuel that reduces air pollution and costs half the price of petrol or diesel is something motorists can't afford to ignore.'

Earlier this year, the Department of Trade and Industry launched a 'boost programme' to increase the uptake of LPG vehicles, providing grants to garages wanting to become approved LP Gas Association-approved installers.

Wilson told delegates at the event that he expected the number of approved converters to increase by a third, bringing the total number to about 200. A full list of LPGA approved installers can be found at The industry has received investment from manufacturers such as Vauxhall, Volvo, Ford and MG Rover. On average, vehicles running on LPG rather than petrol emit about 12% less CO2.