LPG and Dual-Fuel Coffee Machines for Mobile Coffee Trading

Quick answer: For a coffee van or trailer with no mains power, choose a dual-fuel espresso machine — it runs on LPG/propane when off-grid and switches to electric on a hook-up. The Fracino Contempo 2 Group Automatic (CON2ELPG, from £3,249) is the most popular choice for UK mobile coffee traders: automatic dosing, high-volume output, and the LPG-or-electric flexibility a van needs.

Go 1-group for a small cart, 2-group for most pitches, 3-group for high-volume events. The Fracino machines below are built in the UK and rated for propane at 37 mbar. The Magister HRC and Stilo are Italian-made 2-group automatics with an LPG-heated boiler, from £2,900, and can be supplied fully installed within 60 miles of Milton Keynes. Read our Magister HRC & Stilo review, or compare every model in our 2 group espresso machine buyer’s guide.

Can’t see the model you need? Email us, call 01923 559 077 or text 07428 381 443 and we’ll source it for you.

Help choosing: read our LPG and gas coffee machine buyer’s guide and our Fracino CON2ELPG review, or plan your setup with the coffee machine planner.

Running a fixed site such as a petrol station forecourt, café, office or hotel? Take a look at our installed bean to cup coffee machines, with buying guides for petrol stations and shops, offices and hotels.

Coffee Van Machine FAQs

Can you use a coffee machine in a van without mains electricity?

Yes — a dual-fuel espresso machine runs on LPG/propane off-grid and switches to electric when you have a hook-up. It’s the standard setup for UK mobile coffee traders.

What’s the best coffee machine for a coffee van?

The Fracino Contempo 2 Group Automatic (CON2ELPG, from £3,249) is the most popular for mobile work — automatic, high output, and dual-fuel flexible. A 1-group suits a small cart; a 3-group suits high-volume events.

Do dual-fuel coffee machines run on propane or butane?

Propane only. Butane fails to vaporise below about 2°C, so it’s useless for UK outdoor trading. The Fracino dual-fuel machines are rated for propane at 37 mbar, and the Magister machines also run on propane.

How much does a mobile coffee machine cost?

From £2,089 for a 1-group semi-automatic up to £3,799 for a 3-group. Most mobile traders choose a 2-group automatic: the Magister HRC from £2,900 or the Fracino Contempo from £3,249.

Automatic or semi-automatic — which is best for a van?

Automatic (volumetric dosing) is best for consistency and speed when you’re serving solo. Semi-automatic needs more barista skill and isn’t recommended for beginners.

Is a barista kit included?

Yes — a complimentary barista kit comes with the Fracino coffee machines (already in the price). A grinder discount is available as an alternative offer; the two don’t stack.

What about warranty and servicing?

Fracino machines carry a back-to-base warranty (Fracino workshop). Magister machines carry 12 months parts warranty, or 12 months parts and labour when bought fully installed. For high-value packages, equipment finance is available via our leasing page.