The BVRLA is urging businesses to consider their road transport options as London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is implemented.
“Businesses across London are upgrading their fleets to comply with the new ULEZ, but it is clear that many smaller firms are still unaware of the zone or are struggling to afford the switch to expensive new low emission vans and trucks,” said BVRLA Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney.
“It is vital that these companies assess their potential ULEZ costs and work out if they are eligible for any of the discounts, exemptions or scrappage schemes that are available. In many cases, they will be able to manage their costs better by leasing or hiring a compliant car, van or truck. BVRLA members have more than 100 branches and depots within the Greater London area, as well as thousands of car club cars and vans strategically located on streets across the capital.”
The BVRLA has produced a five-point check-list for fleets faced with ULEZ uncertainty.
1. Check whether your vehicle meets ULEZ standards – ULEZ Vehicle Checker
2. Check where you are travelling to see if you are entering the Ultra-Low Emission Zone – ULEZ: Where and When
3. Explore the different options for upgrading to a ULEZ-compliant car, van or truck
4. Check if you are eligible for any discounts, exemptions or van scrappage scheme support
5. Start preparing for 2021, when the zone will grow to cover the entire area within the North and South Circular
With the ULEZ set for a massive expansion in 2021, and a future zero-emission zone also on the cards from 2025, the BVRLA is calling on the Mayor of London, Transport for London and national government to:
- Provide more money for ULEZ mitigation measures that can help fleets and individuals either upgrade their vehicles or make the shift into more sustainable modes of transport
- Ensure that future zero emission zones are properly signposted, managed and co-ordinated and give adequate consideration to the cost and supply constraints surrounding electric vehicles
- Focus on bottlenecks within London’s public EV charging network, ensuring priority access for commercial vehicle fleets and car share providers
- Embrace the behaviour change potential of Mobility Credits, which encourage people to abandon vehicle ownership in favour of a credit that can be used on public transport, bike and car sharing
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