Auto industry urges London rethink on Ultra Low Emission Zone 

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has called for a rethink on the current proposals for an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London.

In an open letter to the Mayor of London, the SMMT welcomes plans from Transport for London (TfL), but says the scheme, due to be implemented in 2020, should enforce the latest emission standards for both petrol and diesel vehicles.

This, it claims, would reflect the step change in clean diesel technology and help ensure similar schemes across the UK and Europe are harmonised.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The implementation of 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.

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

He continued: “The automotive industry is investing billions of pounds in the UK and abroad to develop technologies to lower vehicle emissions.
http://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/2014/12/16/auto-industry-urges-london-rethink-on-ultra-low-emission-zone/54341/