The first edition of the Roma Eco Race took place on 16-17 September between Rome and the Castelli Romani, an eco-rally dedicated to vehicles powered by alternative fuels and organised by the Automobile Club Roma and Punto Gas. In line with the innovative nature of these rallies, where countless technical concepts are tested through races, the latest event saw the participation of a novelty: the first example of a BMW X4 mild hybrid converted to LPG.

The conversion to Autogas was made possible by the Prins VSI-3 DI system for direct injection engines, which allows vehicle car to operate in electric mode when driving conditions and on LPG on faster routes, particularly extra-urban. The car, equipped with all-wheel drive and mild hybrid technology with 48-volt starter generator, has a displacement of 1,998 cm3, 184 HP, 300 Nm of torque and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds.

“The car demonstrated efficiency and versatility, so much so that it allowed the crew, headed by Bruno Lombardelli and Iolanda Chiarolanza, to secure the third step of the podium,” according to Prins.

According to the company, its VSI-3 DI LPG system is “a universal solution for a wide range of latest generation vehicles, compliant with the most recent global emissions standards such as Euro 6D WLTP and certifications such as R115/EPA.” It allows a petrol consumption of less than <5%, and also drastically reduces CO2 emissions (21%) and particulate matter (up to 95%).

Jeroen Visscher, Technical Director of Prins, commented: “The Prins AFC-3.0 DI control unit guarantees control, safety and efficiency of the entire system. The eVP-500 reducer ensures the correct flow of LPG in all driving conditions for cars up to 500hp. Keihin LPG injectors are known for their precision, resistance and speed.”

The system also includes the Prins multicolor switch, the filter, the cylindrical LPG tank installed in the luggage compartment and the gas charging socket positioned next to the petrol one. By adding the capacity of the two tanks, LPG and petrol, the vehicle’s range can reach more than 1,000 km on a full tank.

Source: Prins Autogas

11 October 2023