DFSK South Africa (SA) has launched a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) conversion option across its petrol-vehicle range.

The price for a conversion is R33 350, VAT included.

The introduction comes at a time when many customers are re-evaluating running costs amid surging fuel prices, says the Chinese panel van and bakkie importer, “with a growing number of vehicle purchases being influenced by long-term affordability, rather than upfront pricing alone”.

DFSK SA says the practicality around electric vehicles (EVs) also remains a key concern for many customers.

The LPG conversion system enables DFSK petrol vehicles to run on a dual fuel setup, with the driver able to switch between petrol and LPG.

According to DSFK, this allows for fuel savings of between 30% and 50%.

The company also promises a return on investment within six to 12 months, adding that the system has no range limitations or charging delays as can be the case with EVs.

Dual-fuel capability also allows for operational flexibility.

The company confirms that the LPG conversion is fully approved by the manufacturer and that it does not affect the vehicle warranty.

Additionally, says DSFK SA, LPG’s cleaner combustion properties may contribute to extended engine life.

The importer expects the solution to appeal to fleet operators, small businesses and high-mileage drivers, where fuel costs have a direct impact on profitability.

“Fuel prices are not coming down anytime soon, and expecting our customers to absorb those costs is not a strategy,” says DFSK SA CEO Gina Giani.

While EVs remain part of the broader automotive horizon, DFSK SA believes that “practical, cost-effective solutions” are needed in the current market.

“EVs have their place, but for many customers today, the barriers are still too high –  from pricing to infrastructure,” notes Giani. “What we are offering is a solution that works right now, with immediate savings, practical usage and no compromise on daily operations.”

DFSK SA is rolling out the LPG autogas conversion across its 24 dealers, with options available for both new and existing vehicles.

Customers will also have the option to include the conversion as part of their vehicle finance deals.