VAUXHALL has launched Britain's first range of fully-warranted dual fuel LPG/petrol powered cars.

Vectra and Omega models fitted with the proven 2.0-litre 16v ECOTEC engine are the first in the Vauxhall range available with the option of liquefied petroleum gas power. The environmentally friendly car models, in most trim levels may be ordered now from Vauxhall dealers nationwide. Overall, LPG fuel gives similar performance levels to petrol and costs around 39p per litre compared with unleaded fuel at around 67p per litre.

While the drivers can expect slightly less in terms of miles per litre when using LPG compared with petrol, the fuel cost of running LPG vehicles works out at around 30 per cent less than petrol, according to figures from the government funded Energy Saving Trust which runs the Powershift alternative fuel programme.

The arrival in the marketplace of the Vectra and Omega cars and Combo LPG Dual Fuel van alternatives, means Vauxhall is the first manufacturer to have available a range of bi-fuel gas/petrol cars and light vans in its published price list, all with a Vauxhall warranty.

The LPG version of the highly successful all-purpose Vauxhall Combo van, complements the existing CNG (compressed natural gas) dual fuel model which has been on sale since last autumn.

Drivers of the Dual Fuel Vectra saloon or hatchback and Omega saloon models, and the Combo, switch between fuels at a touch of a fascia button at any time.

Delivered cost (incl. VAT) of the Dual Fuel Vectra ranges from £18,170 for the LS version to £22,245 for CDX, and Dual Fuel Omegas from £21,600 for GLS to £25,245 for CDX.

Cost of the Combo Merit LPG is £10,941 (exl. VAT).

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