Future scrappage schemes should also include ‘mobility credits’, says BVRLA

The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has published a blueprint for transitioning away from diesel vehicles in urban areas.

The BVRLA believes that switching from vehicle ownership to vehicle usership can provide drivers of older vehicles with a cost-effective transport solution. This would help with those affected by the T-Charge emissions standards that has come into effect in London, as members’ fleets are already compliant.

The BVRLA has produced a high-level blueprint for a managed transition that reduces diesel market-share in the most environmentally and economically effective way. Produced by Ecuity Consulting, the report ‘Diesel vehicle market-share reduction analysis’ has four main conclusions.

Government policy should focus on trying to reduce car ownership instead of just choosing alternative vehicles. A scrappage scheme that provides mobility credits for public transport, car club and car rental journeys could stimulate this behaviour change.

The government should focus its efforts on reducing diesel car use in urban areas. Around one-third of car use is on urban roads and electric and hybrid cars represent an increasingly affordable alternative.

A steady transition away from using diesel vehicles will enable the supply chain and consumers to move to alternative technologies without incurring too many costs.

The government needs to provide a consistent clean air zone policy framework across the UK to avoid placing extra burdens or costs on people and businesses driving between urban areas.

“Diesel vehicles play an essential role in transporting goods and people around the country, but the emissions they produce on low-speed urban roads means they have no long-term future in our cities,” said BVRLA Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney.

“We need a carefully blended set of incentives and restrictions that removes the oldest, most polluting diesel vehicles without crippling our economy or punishing people for decisions they have already made.

“The vehicle rental and leasing industry has a huge stake in this transition and we look forward to working with local and national government to deliver a workable solution.”