LPG Vehicle Testing Scheme commences today
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     The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) today (January 11) launched the LPG Vehicle Testing Scheme involving 28 LPG taxis.

     Preliminary work on two of the taxis was finished today, while work on the remaining vehicles will be completed as soon as possible. Preliminary work included cleaning of LPG fuel tanks and hoses, thorough checks and cleaning of vaporisers by the LPG Vehicle Supporting Association.   In addition, Crown Motors Limited will conduct checks on the vehicles. The whole process will be fully supervised by the EMSD.

     After completion of the preliminary work, the vehicles will refill at designated LPG filling stations.  They will also undergo inspections at designated vehicle workshops on a regular basis.  During the testing period, if a vehicle breaks down, the EMSD will transport it to the workshop for further inspection.

     Three working groups were formed under a task force set up by the EMSD to examine three specific areas in identifying the cause of the recent LPG engine stalling incident.  A study group was also formed under the task force to oversee the implementation of the LPG Vehicle Testing Scheme, which is expected to last for three months.

     The scheme is fully supported by the trade. The participating organisations include Association of N.T. Radio Taxicabs Limited, The Kowloon Taxi Owners Association Limited, United Friendship Taxi Owners & Drivers Association Limited, Hong Kong Kowloon Taxi & Lorry Owners' Association Limited, The Hong Kong Taxi and Public Light Bus Association Limited, Chung Shing Taxi Limited, Taxi Dealers & Owners Association Limited, Tai Wo Motors Limited, and Motor Transport Workers General Union Taxi Driver Branch.

     In addition, Sinopec has carried out depleting and refilling of LPG storage tanks at its filling stations. Five stations have resumed service after completion of the work.  They are located at:

Hang Yiu Street, Ma On Shan
Tak Yip Street, Yuen Long
Wai Lok Street, Kwun Tong
Junction between Kwai Chung Road & Kwai On Road, Kwai Chung
Cheung Yip Street, Kowloon Bay

     Meanwhile, a telephone hotline manned by the EMSD received reports of 10 cases of LPG engines stalling today.

Ends/Monday, January 11, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:07

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