THE BVRLA has welcomed London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s new transport strategy for a zero emission London but says there must be more support for affordable alternatives with electric vehicle infrastrucure and car sharing.
The Mayor is pledging to make central London a zero-emission city by 2025 and the entire TfL area by 2050.
Sadiq Khan’s £10 toxic T-Charge, the toughest emission standard of any world city hitting most vehicles over 11 years old, will start in central London on October 23 this year in advance of plans for an ultra low emissions zone (ULEZ).
With an estimated 40,000 deaths each year in the UK being linked to poor air quality, the BVRLA recognises the need for major cities to lead the way in reducing harmful emissions but believes that national government and local authorities need to take a considered and phased approach to avoid punishing businesses and car-owners.
BVRLA members are responsible for buying nearly half of all new vehicles sold in the UK every year. Millions of these cars, vans and trucks operate in and around London every day
The association supports the London Mayor’s ambitious plans and believes its members can play a key role in driving the transition towards a zero-emission city. It says to achieve this quickly and effectively, the Mayor must listen to fleet operators and offer the right mix of incentives and support.
BVRLA chief executive, Gerry Keaney said: “We support the Mayor’s focus on improving air quality, but people must be given practical and affordable alternatives if we are to deliver on his vision of reduced car use and zero-emission streets.
“As well as investing in public transport and cycle lane provision, we will be pushing the Mayor to provide more support for electric vehicle infrastructure and car sharing.”
