I always think it’s important to consider alternatives: the thinking outside the box element of running business cars.
But LPG?
Our special report – Can LPG cut your fuel bill? – suggests it’s the right thing to reduce the high cost of fuel.
But I’m not convinced. There’s certainly a case for small businesses running large-engined but older vehicles – such as a Range Rover (above) – where there’s still plenty of mileage left in the vehicles.
And there’s also a case for getting petrol vans converted, too.
The case for Liquid Petroleum Gas as an alternative fuel
However, LPG has really had its day, I think. New technologies are making the whole conversion process look a little redundant. Both diesel and petrol engines are increasingly cleaner. And then there’s hybrid technology, which works exceptionally well in city centres.
For small businesses, adopting a mixed approach to business travel is another alternative – and can be environmentally rewarding. This includes using rail, bus and car transport. Companies like Europcar are also making hybrids more readily available for businesses who want them on a need to use basis – see London turns on to Toyota Prius hire cars. The result can not only be greener, but cut your business travel costs too.
It’s a more advanced solution I feel than maintaining an older technology like LPG.