AUTOFORUM

ARA powers innovation at Festival of Motoring with LPG-driven Mustang showcase

Aug 05, 2025 Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association (ARA), Attie Serfontein, ARA Gas Conversion Project (GCP). Festival of Motoring,

ARA powers innovation at Festival of Motoring with LPG-driven Mustang showcase

The Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association (ARA) is set to bring innovation and excitement to this year’s Festival of Motoring, taking place at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 29 to 31 August 2025. ARA has been a driving force behind the use of LPG Autogas since 2017, championing it as a cleaner, more sustainable alternative fuel source through its ARA Gas Conversion Project (GCP). The Green Drive initiative highlights the incredible potential of LPG Autogas, sparking growing interest from local workshop owners and fleet companies eager to explore conversion opportunities and diversify their businesses.

In November 2024, ARA and the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) showcased the initiative at Automechanika, demonstrating how growing consumer awareness, supportive government policies, and continued infrastructure investment are paving the way for LPG Autogas to play a pivotal role in South Africa’s future energy landscape.

This year, ARA and the RMI are taking it up a gear – unveiling a bold fusion of high performance and sustainability: a Ford Mustang 5.0 GT, converted to run on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Backed by constituent associations MIWA, the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), and SAVABA (the South African Vehicle and Bodybuilders’ Association), and in collaboration with MasterDrive, the Mustang boasts a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 engine that delivers 328kW of power and 540Nm of torque.

“With a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and selectable drive modes including track, drag-strip and sport, this beast rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h. It’s a guaranteed showstopper,” says Attie Serfontein, ARA National Director. “Now, with its LPG conversion, it stands as a powerful symbol of the potential for greener, cleaner motoring – without compromising on performance.”

“This conversion is not just a technological milestone - it’s a clear demonstration of how innovation in the automotive aftermarket can drive a more sustainable future,” adds Serfontein. “It underscores the critical role that remanufacturing and alternative energy solutions can play in shaping tomorrow’s mobility.” The Mustang will take to the track throughout the event, thrilling spectators and proving that alternative fuels like LPG are not only viable but exhilarating. The initiative forms part of the RMI’s ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable technologies within the sector.

As South Africa’s premier motoring event, Festival of Motoring draws thousands of automotive enthusiasts, industry leaders, and families each year. The 2025 collaboration between RMI and MasterDrive promises to be one of the most talked-about features of the show – igniting fresh conversations about the future of fuel and mobility. Whether you’re an auto aficionado, an industry stakeholder, or simply passionate about the planet, this is your chance to experience innovation in motion – and hear the iconic roar of a Mustang, redefined by sustainability.

ARA is a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).