CNG News: 13 August, 2010

PDVSA plans to convert 465.881 vehicles by 2012

August 6, 2010. Figures of Petroleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) show that between 2006 and 2009 around 19.124 cars have been converted to dual fuel system (gasoline and natural gas), of which 74% (14.140 units) was transformed last year. The goal is to reach 465.881 vehicles for 2012. This follows from the operational and financial report of PDVSA of 2009 which states that to comply with the resolution, dated May 19, 2009, which stipulates that PDVSA must bear the costs associated with conversion and maintenance of dual vehicles, agreements were signed with Venirauto, Toyota, Ford, Chrysler, MMC and General Motors assemblers. They began mass production of cars with natural gas vehicle (NGV) in early 2010. In addition, through the Autogas project, as it was called by PDVSA, began the process of purchase of 300 minibuses and to the close of 2009 it received 80 units with natural gas system. It is also projected the purchase of 700 buses. The Venezuelan oil company anticipates an exchange program of 500 older vehicles with high fuel consumption for one Venirauto to deliver ferrous material to Sidetur or Sidor. The purpose of the program is to reduce the gasoline use in the domestic market and promote the pattern of consumption from liquid fuels to natural gas. In 2012 it is expected to release 7.740 bpd of gasoline, which represents additional income to the nation. According to the report, they have built 138 new stations, of which 55 are 100% ready and the remaining 133 has an advance of 50%. The project envisages construction of 450 filling centers in the country. In 2009, 141 pumps were reactivated at refueling stations. They are already operating 136 conversion workshops. G.E.T. Worldwide Ltd: CNG consultancy - CNG turnkey refuelling stations