Reacting to the news, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) said that although it welcomes the government’s approach for zero-emission HGVs, it is “concerned about the timing of phasing out some sizes of new trucks from 2035″.
The RHA’s statement also added that “firms need proper phasing in of new technology with realistic timescales that will meet the needs of all users.” The organisation has thus urged ministers to “ensure that new diesel trucks are given a minimum use period of 15 years” and to “accelerate investment in the electric vehicle and hydrogen infrastructure needed to realise net zero objectives in transport.”
UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps struck a more positive tone, saying:
“We know that transport plays a key role saving the planet from warming above 1.5°C, which is why this is the COP that will kick start our ambition for zero emission aviation and why I’m proud to be uniting world leaders to tackle climate change – creating new opportunities for clean growth, green jobs and improved air quality right across the globe.”
Shapps added that his vision “is for the UK to have one of the best EV infrastructure networks in the world, with excellent British design at its heart.”
The government’s press release regarding the phase out of fossil fuel-powered trucks was accompanied by research from Bloomberg New Energy Finance, commissioned by the UK COP Presidency and published today.
November 14, 2021 - By: Helen Demm
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