Propane (LPG) conversion workshop

Fleet owners such as taxis, delivery firms, contractors and municipalities, plus high-mileage private drivers with trucks or vans.

A fixed price per conversion, plus charges for servicing, inspections, tank checks and parts for existing customers.

• Automotive mechanical experience
• Comfort with fuel systems and engine diagnostics
• Careful safety habits
• Explaining fuel savings clearly to customers

• Technician certification and shop authorization for propane vehicle fuel systems, which vary by province, so check your regulator
• Conversion kits generally need to meet emissions and safety standards, so check what Environment and Climate Change Canada and Transport Canada expect for each vehicle
• Installation codes such as CSA B149.5, and whether your province requires inspections
• Vehicle manufacturer warranties may be affected, so tell customers up front
• Commercial general liability and garage keepers insurance, plus WCB/WSIB once you hire
• Zoning for a workshop that stores fuel systems and tanks, and different rules in Quebec
• Demand depends on the gap between propane and petrol prices, which can change

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on your premises, tools, conversion kits, insurance and certification. Get quotes for equipment and insurance before settling on a budget.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on how many vehicles you convert and your mix of fleet and private customers. Plan for roughly 35 hours a week or more.

Check technician certification and shop authorization in your province, emissions and safety expectations from Environment and Climate Change Canada and Transport Canada, installation codes such as CSA B149.5, warranty effects, zoning, insurance, and different rules in Quebec.