Final RPC decision to impact freight forwarders
Date: 02 July 2007
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has said it is "extremely disappointed" at the government's latest decision regarding the Euro V reduced pollution scheme, which will dramatically affect freight forwarders.
The Department for Transport (DfT) stated that, from October 1, reduced pollution certificates (RPCs) will be available to heavy goods vehicles that meet the full Euro V standard and meet the on-board diagnostic and torque control requirements, to the end of September 2009.
It added: "The current regime will apply as regards the VED discount (up to £500 per annum) and annual testing. In addition, retrofitted vehicles will be eligible but will require a certificate of compliance issued by the holder of the engine emissions approval."
The RHA's head of technical services, Steve Biddle, said he was disappointed.
"Those hauliers who have already financed vehicles meeting the lower emission levels of Euro V in advance of 1 October 2007, have not only paid a premium for the new Euro V vehicles, they will not benefit from the £500 per annum VED reduction. In effect this could result in an additional loss of £4,000 on a vehicle with an eight-year life."
RPCs allow drivers to tax their vehicles in a reduced pollution taxation class. Logistics companies that miss out will be at a distinct disadvantage.
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