Hauliers lean to green
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by Karen Miles • Truck operators will be at the forefront of the switch from conventional fuels to more environmentally friendly alternatives, says the Government.
Fleet operators, particularly those running smaller commercial vehicles, are set to move from petrol and diesel to lower emission fuels such as liquefied petroleum and natural gases, says a report commissioned by the Departments of Transport and Trade and Industry.
Although petrol and diesel will remain the LTK's major fuels for the foreseeable future, an early change is possible by fleet operators using alternative fuels supplied to a central depot for vehicles operating in a limited area.
Lorry, bus and utility operators could also be encouraged to use low-emission fuels by tax incentives or regulatory measures, the report suggests. So far most of the operators with
gas-powered vehicles, such as BOC, only operate one or two.
The report, "Alternative Road Transport Fuels—a preliminary life-cycle study for the UK", conchides that LPG and natural gas will gradually cut into the petrol and diesel markets—particularly compressed natural gas (CNG), which is expected to fall in price as competition in the market increases.
CNC; and LPG both have lower particulate emission levels than petrol and diesel. They are also believed to have lower cancer risks, but are no cheaper.
Electric vehicles have the greatest need for development.
Roads Minister Steven Norris says: "This report highlights the potential offered by alternative fuels to help minimise the impact of road transport to the environment, especially in urban areas. The report forms the basis for further work, including field trials, being led by my department,"