Ken Livingstone has announced plans to consult on introducing emissions-based charging to the existing congestion charge scheme.
Under the proposals vehicles which produce less than 120g or CO2 per km would be exempt from the charge but the most heavily polluting vehicles which emit more than 225g CO2 per km would be subject to a daily charge of £25.
Defending the proposed changes Mr Livingstone said “most vehicles that will be charged £25, in Vehicle Excise Duty Band G, are high priced models. Those who buy them can afford to choose from pretty much the whole of the mainstream car market but have chosen to buy one of the most polluting vehicles.”
The Mayor said the changes would encourage “people to take into account the impact of their choice of new car on the environment and the planet.”
“We are already cleaning up London’s fleet of public vehicles through measures like the introduction of Hybrid buses. These new proposals will tackle pollution from private vehicles, and ensure that London is leading the way in the fight against catastrophic climate change.”
In addition to the increased charge the current 90% discount for those living in the zone would be withdrawn for those vehicles which qualify for the £25 rate.
Related Forum Discussion: 25 pound Congestion Charge for Most Polluting Vehicles
Dominic says
I don’t understand why a lot of cars would to totally exempt in this proposal. I thought the purpose of the charge was to reduce congestion and encourage public transport use. These “eco-friendly” cars still contribute to congestion and make journeys of those travelling by bus significantly slower, therefore defeating the purpose of the charge.