Following the latest fuel price hike by the government, a growing number of drivers—especially those in the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) sector—are now exploring more affordable alternatives to petrol and diesel.
In its July review, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised fuel costs significantly, pushing up the price of Super Petrol by Ksh8.99, diesel by Ksh8.67, and kerosene by Ksh9.65 per litre.
This sharp increase has sparked frustration among vehicle owners, prompting many to switch to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in a bid to cut costs and stay afloat.
One Nairobi-based taxi driver shared with Citizen TV that he recently had his car converted to run on LPG. He explained that this switch has made a major difference in his daily expenses. “With Ksh1,000 at a petrol station, I only get five litres of petrol.
But when I go to a gas station, that same amount gives me eight litres of LPG,” he said. “Gas not only costs less per litre, but it also lasts longer when driving, meaning I make more money using LPG than petrol.”
This type of conversion involves installing a dual-fuel system, allowing the vehicle to run on both petrol and gas. Drivers can easily switch between the two depending on availability and cost, making it a flexible and efficient option.
However, while the shift to LPG has clear economic benefits, it comes with a challenge—limited access to refuelling points. Few petrol stations are equipped with LPG facilities, and drivers often have to travel long distances just to refill, which adds time and inconvenience.
The switch to gas comes at a time of growing public anger over the rising cost of living. Many Kenyans have taken to social media and public forums to criticize President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of exploiting citizens through excessive fuel taxation.
On July 17, the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) issued a strong statement condemning the government’s decision to raise fuel prices.
“This sudden increase of Ksh8.99 for Super Petrol and Ksh8.67 for diesel shocked all motorists,” the statement read. “When global oil prices dropped, EPRA only reduced local prices by a meagre one shilling, which was an insult to millions of hard-working Kenyans.”
They went on to argue that taxes now make up nearly half the cost of fuel, calling the situation economically harmful and morally unjust.
With fuel prices expected to stay high, many drivers may continue turning to LPG and other alternatives as a way to save money and keep their businesses running.
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