Hauliers can now book low-emission certificate(LEC) tests to prove older vehicles comply with London's low-emission zone (LEZ) due to begin next February. LEC tests, costing £28, have been introduced after it was realised that some Euro 1 and Euro 2 vehicles reach the Euro 3 standard for particulate matter. Inspections will be available at VOSA test stations from 3 September.
VOSA says: "All heavy goods vehicle test stations and designated premises have the ability to carry out the LEC
inspections. All the equipment required is in place, plus each area has a mobile smoke meter, which can be used for visiting premises other than designated premises." Each test will take about five minutes and VOSA has already had trial runs at its Yeading, Middlesex, and Mitcham, Surrey sites.
Meanwhile, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) plans to refer Transport for London (TfL) to the Advertising Standards Authority over its latest LEZ advertisement on the grounds that it incorrectly states that trucks above 12 tonnes must meet "Euro 3 emissions standards". The RHA argues that the advert should say "the particulate standard for Euro 3".
TfL says the main aim is to "direct owners and operators to the website, leaflet, or call centre where more in-depth information is available". It adds: "The LEZ is an innovative scheme."
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