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LowCVP publishes low emission vehicles guide for local authorities

LowCVP, the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, has today (24 June 2015) released a best practice guide for local authorities aimed at encouraging uptake of low emission vehicles.

Catchilly dubbed 'Good practice guide for local measures to encourage the uptake of low emission vehicles', the new publication insists that key to uptake is consistency with policy measures implemented locally – including common definitions and vocabulary.

With the 12 cities shortlisted for the £35m Go Ultra Low City scheme now preparing their final bids, the guide suggests a variety of options for the bidders.

Released to coincide with LowCVP's 2015 annual conference – which is focused on mobility in future cities and brining hybrids and electrics into mainstream transport – the LowCVP guide identifies five 'P's for local authorities to influence low emission vehicle uptake.

These are: parking - discounts for LEVs or dedicated bays; permits - discounts for LEVs to operate in low emission zones and for residents, and preferential terms for LEV taxis; planning – embedding consideration for LEV fuelling infrastructure into local development; procurement – local authorities specifying LEVs for their own fleets; and promotion - of the benefits to business and via educational activity.

"The guide can help local authorities to offer consistent benefits to individuals and companies, which will give LEV drivers the peace of mind and confidence they need to make the switch," states Gloria Esposito, LowCVP head of projects.

"The new LowCVP good practice guide offers a broad range of case studies and innovative policy ideas that can be replicable across any local government context," adds Derek McCreadie, low emission officer, City of York Council.

Low emission vehicles have a critical role to play in reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in towns and cities across the UK, says Esposito, adding that action taken at the local level can be instrumental in complementing national policies and incentives.

To download the good practice guide, click the link below.

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