RPC problems loom for long-haul drivers
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by Peter Lawton Filling up with cheap Continental diesel could technically cost operators their Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC) and a fine of up to £5,000.
The RPC stipulates that trucks need to use ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD), the only type now available in the UK, to qualify for the duty rebate.
This means any panEuropean haulier using one of the 33,000 RPC trucks so far registered is technically evading vehicle excise duty if they return to the UK with higher sulphur content diesel.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency says a prosecution is unlikely, but any inspector who thinks a truck is running with non-ULSD can send it to a test centre. If it fails, the RPC Is revoked and the haulier has to re-licence at the higher rate or face prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000.
Transport lawyer Jonathan Lawton says; "Technically there is a breach, but I doubt anyone would prosecute. If they did, there is recourse to Europe."
Manufacturers told Commercial Motor that operators also faced losing their 0licence, but the DVLA is unsure if this is the case.
The RPC fuel requirement applies to any vehicle, whether or not It is fitted with exhaust after-treatment. In any case, catalysts or particulate traps can be damaged by the sulphur in "conventional" DERV.
A number of hauliers contacted by CM said they had no idea that running RPC trucks in Europe could land them with a fine. One Midlands operator asked CM "How else am I supposed to get back home?"
The uncertainty over prosecution and the penalties involved is typical of the RPC scheme which faces another upheaval on 30 September when new standards are introduced. Manufacturers and operators are unable to plan because the revised regulations are not yet available for consultation by the DETR which is "frantically" trying to have them ready for 10 Septembeit • Safeway Stores is taking 50 Volvo FM 12 tractors for delivery up to the end of September.
Each of the Volvos, the first for Safeway in five years, is powered by the D12C 340hp engine, designed to meet the current Reduced Pollution Certificate emission standards which expire on 30 September.
All are supplied on contract hire with Volvo Contract Services in partnership with Volvo Truck and Bus of Darlington.
The trucks will be running from the supermarket's regional distribution centre in Stockton-on-Tees.