Commenting on the Mayor’s announcement, BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney said: ‘London has to clean up its act, and the Mayor’s proposals for an Ultra Low Emission Zone by 2020 will make a massive contribution.'
Under the current proposals, which are still subject to a full consultation, ultra-low emission vehicles would be promoted to reduce harmful air pollution. Meanwhile drivers of older diesel and petrol vehicles would be subject to a ULEZ charge on top of the congestion charge to travel in central London. Petrol and diesel vehicles would need to meet the Euro 4 petrol or Euro 6 diesel standards respectively to be exempt from the proposed ULEZ charge.
Keaney added: ‘Diesel vehicles are popular because they have provided millions of consumers and businesses with fuel-efficient motoring. Unfortunately, diesel particulate filters are not as effective in congested, slow-moving urban traffic, but the new Euro 6 diesel engine standard will address this issue.
‘The Mayor’s proposed 2020 implementation date makes sense as it gives businesses and individuals time to prepare, and doesn’t punish them for vehicle choices they have recently made.
‘These plans may encourage many people living in or around London to abandon vehicle ownership, use more public transport and rely on their local rental outlet or car club for their motoring needs.’
