Hydrogen powered transits get 100% discount on congestion charge

A converted 2.2L Ford TRANSIT was tested and found to meet TfL requirements for a 100% discount based on the criteria for exemption: emissions of less than 75g/km, and to meet or better the ‘Euro 5b’ standard. ULEMCo’s emissions test result for the converted van was just 59g/km, and was witnessed by the UK Vehicle Type Approval authority (VCA). Air quality measures relative to the Euro standard showed results 77% better on particulates; 78% better on CO; 14% better on NOx and 6% better on THC (unburned hydro carbon). Eligibility for the Congestion Charge discount will apply to any vehicles of the same engine/type converted by ULEMCo, subject to TfL’s annual confirmation.  

Incentives such as the Congestion Charge discount provide much needed support for commercial vehicle operators to make the switch to ultra-low emission vehicles, at the same time as ensuring that their business remains financially competitive. Hydrogen-diesel vans provide a practical, low carbon low emission option in a class of vehicle that currently has no alternative.         

“We are delighted that our Ford TRANSIT conversion has been recognised by TfL as eligible for the Congestion Charge discount”, said Amanda Lyne, CEO, ULEMCo. “As far as we know, this is the first vehicle in this type (1.8-3.5t) that meets both air quality and carbon emission requirements in London, and will provide our customers with a significant incentive to make the conversion, beyond the motive of environmental responsibility”.    

ULEMCo recently announced that it had raised a further £400k in funding and is currently carrying out dual fuel conversions of a number of refuse collection vehicles and Transits under the Levenmouth Community Energy Project.