ULEZ needs to be more ambitious, demands SMMT 16 December 2014

The proposed ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) in London should be more ambitious, according to the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders).

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes says that London should set the benchmark for the world's great cities by implementing a scheme that demands the very best in vehicle technology.

In an open letter to the Mayor of London, he calls for a rethink of the proposals set out by TfL (Transport for London) to enforce the latest emission standards for both petrol and diesel vehicles.

Hawes concedes that this reflects the step change in clean diesel technology, and helps to ensure similar schemes across the UK and Europe are harmonised. However, it's not enough.

"The ULEZ will accelerate the take-up of ultra low and low emission vehicles, but a harmonisation of standards – a technology neutral approach – for petrol and diesel vehicles would strengthen the initiative," states Hawes.

"Currently, the proposed requirements differ for cars and vans [but] SMMT is urging London to be more ambitious, with a universal [Euro 6] standard for both petrol and diesel vans and cars. [This] would remove any confusion, strengthen the uptake of cleaner technology and bring air quality benefits sooner."

Hawes makes the point that the automotive industry is investing billions in the UK and abroad to develop technologies to lower vehicle emissions.

"The ULEZ can accelerate the take up of these cleaner technologies, and bring air quality and carbon reduction benefits to London sooner," he says.

"Today's diesel vehicles are light-years away from those built just a decade ago. Intelligent engine design and highly efficient exhaust after-treatments, including particulate filters, capture over 99% of particulates and around two-thirds of NOx emissions.

For the SMMT, the new ULEZ proposals should support the introduction of these technologies now – "technologies that are being introduced ahead of the ever-tougher legislative requirements which will be implemented over the next few years".

The current proposals for an ULEZ for London dictate the 2006 standard Euro 4 for petrol vehicles and the latest Euro 6 for diesel vehicles.

Given the introduction date of 2020, it would allow petrol vehicles of up to 14 years old to enter without penalty.

By this date, the European fleet average will be approaching 95g/km of CO2, whereas a typical petrol car of Euro 4 vintage would have CO2 emissions some 72% higher.

Euro 6 petrol and diesel vehicles are on sale now and mandatory from next year, meaning that under SMMT's proposals, by 2020, qualifying vehicles would be up to six years old and would be reasonably affordable, potentially on their third owner.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
SMMT Industry Forum

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