AT THE HEART OF THE ROAD TRANSPORT INDUSTRY.

Call our Sales Team on 0208 912 2120

FAIR DEAL FOR EARLY BIRDS

19th April 2007, Page 10
19th April 2007
Page 10
Page 10, 19th April 2007 — FAIR DEAL FOR EARLY BIRDS
Close
Noticed an error?
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.

Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

The Chancellor's plan to offer operators a reduced pollution certificate (RPC) for upgrading to Euro-5 before the emissions standard becomes compulsory in November 2009 has been welcomed by the manufacturers. But only those buying Euro-5 trucks after October will receive the RPC, which is hardly fair on those who put their money where their green credentials were at the start.

Unsurprisingly, many operators who have already ordered Euro-5 vehicles are considering cancelling those orders, while those who have already taken delivery of their Euro-5 machines are left feeling that their environmentally friendly attitude has cost them dear.

"Operators who have ordered Euro-5 vehicles are considering cancelling those orders"

Given that the government first touted the idea of a Euro-5 RPC in last year's Budget, early-bird operators could be forgiven for thinking they ought to be rewarded. The fact that the Road Haulage Association and the manufacturers have felt the need to talk to the Department for Transport about these concerns reflects the upset this issue has caused.

Meanwhile the industry has to wait for the DfT and the Treasury to see sense. Yes, there's an issue that existing Euro-5 trucks do not have the depowering system that will be required from 1 October, but there are ways to monitor these Euro-5 tractors to ensure they remain compliant. The conclusion is clear: the DfT should be rewarding operators who have taken the step early, rather than penalising them for taking the initiative.

• The other issue to come to the fore this week is the confusion over the new drivers' hours regulations. Before 11 April most I_GV drivers knew the basic rules; now they are trying to juggle the new regs with existing Working Time Directive legislation, and many are coming unstuck. While Vosa has attempted to clarify the situation, many drivers remain confused. What's needed is a definitive explanation, in simple language or with a simple formula, before drivers end up on the wrong side of the law trough no fault of their own.


comments powered by Disqus