The case for Londoners to switch to a pure electric vehicle has become even more compelling as even tougher emission restrictions come into force.
The UK’s bustling capital was one of the first in the world to introduce a congestion charge zone designed to reduce traffic in the city centre. The only way motorists could avoid paying a £10 daily charge was to drive a car or van emitting less than 100g/km of CO2… or take public transport, of course.
But as more and more vehicles have managed to get below that figure, the Mayor of London has announced tighter emission restrictions.
From 1 July, a new Ultra Low Emission Discount (ULED) will lower the CO2 emission target to just 75g/km. And while there are some plug-in hybrids that meet the new restrictions, the easiest way to drive in the centre of London for free is from behind the wheel of a zero emission electric vehicle such as the UK made Nissan LEAF or the Renault Zoe, Kangoo Z.E., Fluence Z.E. and Twizy.
That roster will grow when Nissan introduces the pure electric e-NV200 van and London taxi in the not-too-distant future.
The changes will strengthen London’s pioneering role in the development of zero emission transport policies which improve air quality and reduce noise levels in the capital. And other cities will look to the London example as they set their own targets.
James Wright, Nissan GB Managing Director, said: “This change is a positive milestone and supports our commitment to offering drivers zero-emission motoring.”
Londoners who have already registered vehicles producing less than 100 g/km with Transport for London (TfL) will be able to use their cars and vans for another three years until towards the end of June 2016 without penalty.
Find more information on Transport for London website.
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