Euro 6 – New Regulation Fuels Change for LGVs

Since 2009 every Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) that has been registered with the DVLA has been required to meet the Euro 5 regulations. This is set to change after 31st December 2013 as Euro 6 regulations begin to come into force. The new regulations demand significant reductions in the levels of nitrogen oxides and CO₂ that are emitted by different vehicle classes.

One of the ways manufacturers could have complied with the Euro 6 regulations would have been by building a whole new engine for their vans, but this is not a practical solution and instead the majority look to use AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid, DEF) technology and/or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR).

AdBlue is used through a process called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) whereby the DEF is injected into the hot exhaust gas recirculation with the result being a reduction in harmful emissions released from diesel engines. The AdBlue converts NOx gases in exhaust flue into nitrogen and steam. Vehicles fitted with SCR systems are able to increase service intervals to as much as 40,000 miles which of course means less money spent on maintenance, however there is an extra cost that incurs with the need to regularly fill the vehicle up with the DEF (approx. 1:20 of the rate of Diesel usage).

Exhaust Gas Recirculation is the process whereby a valve is fitted to the vehicle to control the flow of gas thus recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into engine cylinders, ‘replacing excess oxygen and thereby reducing combustion temperature and suppressing NOx production.’ The EGR also brings with it excess costs as vans may require more frequent basic servicing due to the fitted valve.

Another financial increase will transpire as manufacturers look to recoup some of the extra cost they incur through investing in advanced emission-reduction technology by increasing the prices of their vehicles, a cost that could be as much as an additional £1,000 (having an effect on the cost of monthly leases).

Despite these extra costs, van operators should think twice about ignoring the impending legislation as in London the Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) charges a penalty of £250 per day for any vehicle found not to comply with its emissions standards, a figure that is doubled if not paid within 14 days.

New regulations are to be enforced as follows:

Source: AVL emission report pollutant, p9

New Euro 5 vehicles can be registered until 30 December 2013. If the vehicle is built on or before 30 September 2013, it can be registered any time until September 2014.

If you have any further questions regarding the new regulations please do not hesitate to contact us on 01753 851561.