Earlier this month (January 2017), a DfT (Department for Transport) backed report indicated that gas engines deliver significant improvements in air quality over diesel counterparts, providing they use a high biogas blend.
Foster now runs the Energy and Utilities Alliance (a not-for-profit association working in the energy sector), which includes the Natural Gas Vehicle Network, NGVN.
Given the urgency around London’s air quality, NGVN is asking the mayor to signal that gas-powered HGVs should be the preferred means of keeping Londoners supplied with goods.
In a letter to the mayor, Foster points out that HGVs account for 16% of UK road transport greenhouse gases, 21% of NOx emissions, yet make up just 5% of vehicle miles travelled and less than 2% of total vehicle numbers.
The report published by LowCVP (Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership), suggests that, in comparison to a Euro 6 diesel engine, equivalent gas engines reduce NOx emissions by 41% and NO2 by 74%.
“Sadiq has made a great start to his mayoral term and, having worked closely with him, I know he is determined to do what is right for Londoners,” states Foster.
“The evidence on air quality is clear: having gas HGVs in London is better than diesel. The vehicles are also quieter and have lower carbon emissions too,” he continues.
“The mayor of London can not only help improve local air quality; he can also set the agenda across the UK…
“Our network is available to meet him and his team if they need any further information.”