Trade in a non-LEZ compliant vehicle for a brand new Ford Transit.

A new initiative is underway to help van drivers get compliant for the next phase of the London Low Emission Zone – and save money on fuel. Low carbon vehicle specialist Ashwoods Automotive has worked with the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson to offer owner-drivers the chance to trade in their non-compliant vehicles for a brand new Ford Transit fitted with Ashwoods’ innovative EcoDrive technology. The Mayor has negotiated a significant discount for Londoners, with prices starting at just £11,995, plus £500 cash back for their non-compliant vehicle. And because EcoDrive cuts fuel use by up to 10%, buyers are also protected against rising pump prices.

From 3 January, 2012 vans and minibuses entering the London LEZ must comply with the Euro 3 standard for exhaust emissions; meaning vehicles over 10 years old that enter the zone face fines of up to £100 per day. According to Transport for London, more than 70,000 vans and minibuses will be affected.

Mark Roberts, Managing Director of Ashwoods Automotive said, “Almost all of the 72,000 vans and minibuses impacted by this change belong to small businesses.  The offer gives them an easy and cost-effective way to be LEZ-compliant, while also making fuel savings from the moment they drive off in a new vehicle.”

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London said, “Vans are the lifeblood of this city. Their drivers are knights of the road, an army of entrepreneurs. This noble bunch are mostly small business owners and independent traders who are focused on grafting hard to support their families and build a better future. The vast majority of people who are affected by these new changes to the London Low Emission Zone have upgraded their vehicles and need not take any action. But for those remaining people I know these are difficult times and that their vehicles are essential for their livelihoods.  I want to do all I can to help. I have already given extra breathing space during the depths of the recession before these standards are introduced. But pollution remains a serious health issue and although we have seen off large fines that were looming from Europe, this remains a real threat unless we take drastic measures.”

Ashwoods LEZ Vehicle Replacement Service started on 1 April 2011 and runs for 12 months. It is open to all owner-drivers with vehicles that are 10 or more years old.

Transport for London has written to all the owners of vehicles affected by the new LEZ.  More information from www.ecovansdirect.co.uk/lowemissionzone or www.tfl.gov.uk/lezlondon.

Boris Johnson checks out the Ashwoods Hybrid Transit Demonstrator