Renault and Fiat are the latest manufacturers to sign up to Boris Johnson’s discount scheme for drivers needing to replace larger vans and minibuses ahead of next year’s expansion of the Low Emission Zone.
Under the scheme, which was introduced by former Mayor Ken Livingstone in 2008, vehicles entering Greater London which do not comply with emissions standards face a potential fine for every journey.
The scheme’s third phase, which applies to vans and minibuses, is due to come into effect in January after being given the go-ahead by Mr Johnson.
Last month the Mayor announced manufacturers including Citroën, Ford and Volkswagen have agreed to provide “more affordable ways to buy new, cleaner vehicles” including discounts which “in some cases amount to thousands of pounds off a new vehicle.”
The addition of Renault, DAF and Fiat to the scheme means drivers will have a wider choice of discounted vehicles.
Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: “I want to make the air cleaner and greener in this great city with the minimum of financial impact for those who need to upgrade their vehicles.
“I’ve already given extra breathing space during the depths of the recession before these standards are introduced and I am pleased that a number of manufacturers are now offering new discounts to aid us in our efforts.”
