Any consumer in South Korea can buy a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-powered vehicles or modify their cars to run on the fuel starting Tuesday, as restrictions on LPG cars have been removed as part of efforts to improve air quality.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced Monday that the restriction that allows LPG fuel only for taxis, rental cars and vehicles for disabled people will be lifted on Tuesday to promote more cars to fuel cleaner LPG.

LPG vehicles are a much cheaper and eco-friendly option for drivers as the automotive butane, main fuel for LPG cars, is priced at 797.4 won ($0.70) on average, about 42 percent cheaper than gasoline. It also emits less carbon dioxide compared to conventional gas or diesel-fueled cars, contributing to the reduction of fine dust in the air.

A bill that imposes a fine of up to 3 million won on violators of the regulation has also been abolished. But whether the move will actually make immediate impact on the roads is yet to be seen as consumer choices on LPG cars are limited. Few retail models are available in LPG fuel and gas stations restricted.

Fine dust air pollution has been worsening in the country in recent years. Ultra-fine dust, dubbed PM2.5 that is particulate matter (PM) with a size of less than 2.5 micrometers, reached an all-time high level for the longest seven days across the nation early this month. The government has been turning very aggressive in fighting air pollution by coming up with a number of anti-dust measures, but has not succeeded in reducing pollutants significantly.

By Lee Jae-cheol and Choi Mira

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business Newspaper & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]