Clean Air Zones: What they mean for commercial operators

If you’re a fleet manager, employed driver or own and run your own commercial vehicle, you’ll likely be used to complying with different rules and regulations to keep everyone safe. However, the increasing implementation of Clean Air Zones in many of our major conurbations can pose a new challenge for professional motorists. 

Clean Air Zones aren’t a new concept. In 1996, Sweden introduced its pioneering ‘Environmental Zone’. In the years that followed, cities across Europe began launching programmes targeted at restricting emissions in urban and built-up areas. 

Though the requirement to satisfy each Clean Air Zone varies depending on local authority and national government legislation, many base their qualification requirements on minimum European Emission Standards. Familiar to most as ‘Euro 4, 5 or 6’ compliant engines, many areas require your vehicle to be fitted with a Euro 6-compliant engine or pay a fee to enter the area. In London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), for example, petrol-engined cars and vans must meet Euro 4 standards, while Euro 6 is required for diesel cars and vans. For trucks, buses and coaches, Euro VI is needed to avoid incurring a charge. 

Regardless of whether your engine complies, there are steps you can take to ensure your vehicle is working as efficiently as possible. When in a city or urban area, try to minimise idling. Cutting your engine, perhaps while you’re making a delivery or waiting in heavy traffic, is an easy action that will make a difference. Efficiency gains can also be achieved by checking tyre pressures and removing unnecessary weight. 

You can also make sure that your engine is fit and healthy with regular maintenance intervals and by using the latest in lubricant technology. For example, swapping your engine oil to Texaco Delo 600 ADF can help deliver reliable protection to your engine and emissions systems,  which will in turn help to improve economy and overall efficiency.