As the biggest talking point in the automotive world right now is of course proposed incentives for those willing to voluntarily scrap their diesel cars, we thought we’d pay the subject a little more detailed focus.
It’s hardly surprising that millions of diesel vehicle drivers up and down the United Kingdom are finding themselves entirely confused and perhaps even feeling misled. After all, it’s only as of relatively recently that diesel has become considered detrimental. In fact, it wasn’t long ago that we were all being told we should be buying and driving diesel cars.
So in order to cut to the heart of the issue, let’s take a look at a few of the key questions regarding diesel cars and a new scrappage incentive:
What’s the Problem?
The problem is relatively simple, though understandably frustrating for many. Back in 2001, a significant vehicle excise duty reduction was slapped on diesel cars, as an incentive for more people to buy them. Given the way in which diesels were considered more fuel-efficient and reduced carbon dioxide emissions, the government actively encouraged buyers to go with diesel. Unfortunately, it would then be discovered that the nitrogen dioxide produced by diesel cars is 400% higher than that of an equivalent petrol car. In addition, diesel cars emit 22X more particulates.
What’s Happening?
Environmental groups decided that the only way forward was to sue the government, in order to force it to take immediate and concise action. Said environmental groups were successful in their campaigns, which in turn forced the government to quickly develop and unveil new measures to tackle the growing problem with diesel cars and air pollution.
What Will the Government Do?
As previously touched upon, the crux of the idea is to incentivise diesel car drivers to scrap their cars and upgrade to something more environmentally friendly. The kinds of cash likely to be handed out are yet to be set in stone. The idea of funding the costs of retrofitting cars with appropriate filters was also under discussion.
How Is the Tories’ Targeted Scheme Different?
The biggest difference is the way in which this particular scheme will only be available and applicable to those who drive older diesel vehicles and live in particularly polluted areas. Those with newer diesel cars or living outside pollution hotspots will be exempt from the scrappage scheme.
What Else Might Be Done?
It’s entirely likely that the coming months and years will also see many cities overhauled, as a means by which to smooth traffic flow and reduce pollution. Typical measures could include lower speed limits, speed bumps and paid congestion levies like in Central London.
New clean air zones could restrict cars entering towns and cities. Speed bumps could go to cut pollution and smooth traffic flow.
What About Diesel Taxes?
While both local and national government offices technically have the authority to tax diesel car drivers, this is generally seen as a counterproductive and unfair approach. As already mentioned, many of those driving diesel cars may have chosen diesel on the back of previous government advice and recommendations.
