Air Quality in London and Heavy Good Vehicles (Hgvs)

Mayor London 23rd January 2017

Dear Sadiq Air quality in London and Heavy Good Vehicles (HGVs) I am writing to draw attention to the recent findings of the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership and their testing of emissions from gas powered commercial vehicles. Recognising the importance of freight transport in keeping a city, and its inhabitants, such as London fully provided for there is a challenge not only to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but to improve air quality too. The latter being a particular problem for inner cities. HGVs are estimated to account for 16 per cent of UK road transport GHGs; 21 per cent of road transport NOx emissions yet make up just 5 per cent of vehicle miles travelled and less than 2 per cent of vehicle numbers. Their disproportionate environmental impact suggests it is an area ripe for action. The report suggests that compared to a diesel Euro VI engine, a gas-powered equivalent reduced NOx emissions by 41 per cent (on average) over a variety of cycles. NO2 emissions were down by 74 per cent, on the same like-for-like basis. Tail pipe carbon emissions were down, and on a well-to-tank basis, carbon dioxide savings are also significant. For gas vehicles using biomethane, the GHG savings are, to quote the report, “significant”. This backs up evidence we have seen from a gas-filling station project in Leyland (just off the M6) used by Waitrose, which has seen GHG reductions using gas- powered vehicles. This is why it is vital for Government, at all levels, to recognise and support the significant role that gas can play as a cleaner transport fuel, both now and in the future. Given that gas-powered HGVs have been proven to deliver even greater emissions reductions and air quality improvements that Euro VI diesel, London could stand to benefit significantly from clear and ambitious action in this area. My industry colleagues would welcome the opportunity to brief you on the report; the findings from the Leyland project or more generally on the environmental benefits of gas- powered HGVs. Please do not hesitate to contact my office. Best wishes

Mike Foster CEO Energy and Utilities Alliance

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