Minister of Resources and Rural Affairs George Pullicino today launched the Autogas scheme which can help drivers save money. A subsidy from the government of €200 will also help people pay for the conversion.

Autogas is a form of fuel which has been introduced in Malta which is much cleaner for the environment. The kit to help convert to Autogas costs around €500 - €800, however will help save up to 50% of fuel costs compared to petrol users. The government subsidy of €200 only applies to certain cars and people who have applied on the Ministry website.

The Minister explained that Autogas can only be implemented in cars that use petrol as it is not compatible with diesel. The way the system works, is that drivers will have two tanks, one for gas and one for petrol. Once your tank of gas finishes, the car will automatically transfer to using petrol, so the conversion does not require you to change your tank.

Environmentally, Autogas reduces Nitrous Oxide and Carbon Dioxide emissions. Cars with Autogas will have a sticker on them in case of an accident.

There are currently around 20 cars in Malta using it and several fuelling stations have it available.