But there are strings attached with some insurers. Some 16 companies in the survey reported they wouldn't insure a vehicle unless it was fitted by a manufacturer or an LPGA Approved Installer.

With this in mind it would appear insurers have done their homework about LPG. Another two companies in the survey said they would only insure the vehicle subject to a safety check report by an independent engineer. Fuelture strongly supports companies which insure gas-powered vehicles on the basis that the installer is professionally qualified and holds LPGA certification.

As a customer, why run the risk of having your vehicle converted by an installer who isn't LPGA certified? Direct Line car insurance says it adds 'no extra premium costs' for covering LPG-powered vehicles. A spokeswoman for the company said: "We only have to know if there have been any modifications added to the car. As far as we're concerned, gas-powered cars don't add any additional risk, which is what affects insurance costs."

One Fuelture customer who is pleased that an LPG conversion added no extra insurance premium is Tony Kirk from North Wales. Mr Kirk had his Rover 75 converted in January 2005 and reports that his insurance quote was equivalent to a petrol or diesel-powered vehicle.

"Opting for LPG has not changed my insurance premium, which is fully comprehensive," he says. "I sent a copy of my LPGA certificate to my insurers who then sent me a new cover note. This showed a change in the vehicle fuel type.”

But while it's essential to declare your LPG conversion  to your insurer, it's equally important to ensure your car has the correct documentation. What documentation should your vehicle have? Some vehicles will have been factory fitted with an LPG system. This will usually be reflected in the model details on your V5 logbook. Typically, this will refer to the model as a bi-fuel, dual-fuel or LPG. When your vehicle is converted to run on LPG, you should inform the DVLA. They will then note the additional fuel in the appropriate section of the logbook.

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