LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a mixture of propane and butane obtained from refining crude oil and natural gas. Thanks to its properties, LPG is liquid under pressure, which makes it easy to transport and store. Its versatility gives it a wide range of uses, including as a vehicle fuel and for cooking and heating. It is often also called autogas.
How is LPG used?
- Vehicle fuel:
- LPG, or autogas, is a popular alternative to petrol and diesel, mainly because of its lower cost and smaller environmental impact. Vehicles that run on LPG are fitted with special tanks and fuel delivery systems.
- Household use:
- It is used for cooking, space heating and water heating, often in rural areas without access to the gas grid. In households it is also known as ‘bottled gas’.
- Industrial use:
- In industry it powers machinery, heats premises and is used in production processes.
Advantages
- Lower fuel price:
- It is considerably cheaper than petrol and diesel. The average price of LPG is between €0.80 and €1.10 per litre, while petrol and diesel prices often exceed €1.50 per litre.
- Smaller environmental impact:
- It produces fewer CO₂ and other harmful emissions than fossil fuels.
- Economical driving:
- Autogas vehicles use slightly more fuel (in litres) than petrol vehicles, but the overall cost of driving is significantly lower because of the difference in fuel price.
Disadvantages
- Initial conversion cost:
- Converting a car to LPG can cost from €700 to €1,500, depending on the vehicle model and the system.
- Fewer filling stations:
- Although the network of filling stations in Croatia (and the region) is well developed, it is still not as widespread as for petrol and diesel.
- Vehicle performance:
- Autogas cars have slightly less power and a shorter range than petrol cars.
Price of LPG compared with petrol and diesel
LPG stands out as the most cost-effective fuel for drivers looking to save:
- Autogas: the average price is €0.80–1.10 per litre.
- Petrol: the price of petrol varies between €1.50 and €1.70 per litre.
- Diesel: diesel mostly costs between €1.40 and €1.60 per litre.
Fuel savings for autogas vehicles can reach up to 50% compared with petrol vehicles. LPG is also often available at more stable prices because it is less sensitive to global changes in oil prices.
The future of autogas
LPG remains a popular choice as a transitional fuel while renewable energy sources are developed. Its low price and reduced environmental impact make it an attractive option for drivers and industry.
LPG – frequently asked questions
Fitting an LPG system usually costs between 5,000 and 10,000 kuna, depending on the type of vehicle and the quality of the system.
Yes, LPG is safe if it is stored and used correctly. Modern tanks and safety systems reduce the risk of leaks or explosions.
LPG is available at most petrol stations across the region, especially in urban areas and along major routes.
Regular maintenance includes servicing the autogas system every 20,000 km, which can add €50–150 a year to maintenance costs.