The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) has published its annual balance of car registration figures for last year. In 2022, a total of 385,457 passenger cars were newly registered. Of these, 42.2% had an alternative drive, including Autogas.

Until 1 January 2023, there were a total of 326,853 LPG-powered vehicles registered, with a market share of 0.7%. In particular, new registrations in 2022 were remarkably strong with over 15,006 cars, compared to the 10,118 vehicles registered in 2021.

“These are good figures that give hope that consumers are appreciating Autogas. It has lost none of its attractiveness as an economic and environmentally friendly fuel, especially due to the increased financial burden in all areas. Moreover, the fuel cost difference is still a decisive factor when buying a car,” said Uwe Thomsen, energy expert and Managing Director of Propan Rheingas GmbH & Co. KG.

The average price for LPG at German filling stations is currently 1.10 euros compared to 1.78 euros for E10 (it is more expensive on motorways) as of March 2023. Due to the price gap per litre and conversion costs of around 2,500 euros, a conversion pays for itself after just two years, depending on the mileage. Another advantage is the almost 7,000 service stations where Autogas is available in the country.

In addition, vehicles are getting older. “In line with Germany’s climate targets, Autogas conversions can achieve immediate CO2 reductions in existing fleets, which would otherwise not be possible. It is also gratifying that with Renault, alongside Dacia, there is now another manufacturer that offers factory-fitted LPG vehicles that customers can directly buy from the dealer,” Thomsen added.

“The large number of petrol engines would allow a large number of conversions to LPG and thus an immediate reduction in emissions. But it would be even easier if politicians promoted all alternative, CO2-saving fuels in a technology-neutral way,” Thomsen concluded.

Source: Rheingas

26 April 2023