January/February 2018
www.bvrla.co.uk
The bimonthly newsletter of the British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association
Regional campaign for ‘fleet-friendly’ Clean Air Zones BVRLA members are talking to local policymakers up and down the country as part of the association’s campaign for a ‘fleet-friendly’ approach to Clean Air Zones. The discussions took place at a series of Air Quality Roundtables jointly hosted by the BVRLA, Energy Saving Trust and some of the UK cities that have been tasked with introducing Clean Air Zones by 2020. Rental, leasing and commercial vehicle members were present, alongside a range of other fleet operators. Events have already taken place in Leeds, Nottingham and Derby, with a further roundtable scheduled for Birmingham in March.
The BVRLA’s Toby Poston at the Leeds event Gerry Keaney, Chief Executive of the BVRLA, said: “We are very grateful to these cities for welcoming us to their offices for some hugely important discussions. For many, local Clean Air Zones will be the first tangible evidence of the government’s drive to improve air quality. It’s vital that their design and implementation encourages growth and doesn’t impede people’s ability to get around and transport goods.
“We need to see a consistent approach to signage, charging and restrictions to minimise confusion and avoid non-compliance. “We are calling for a carefully managed transition that encourages people and businesses to use more sustainable vehicles and modes of transport. The key to getting a quick and effective transition will lie in the government’s ability to implement a practical and workable solution which considers fleet operating cycles as well as offering incentives and support to operators.” As well as engaging with local authorities, the BVRLA is also lobbying central government, speaking to a range of influential MPs and presenting at a series of air quality conferences. An update on all the association’s activity in this area can be found in the Fleet Air Quality section of our website. u To coincide with the roundtable events, the BVRLA has published a new factsheet outlining its proposals for a fleet-friendly air quality policy. As well as highlighting the clean air credentials of the vehicle rental, leasing and car club sectors, the document also urges policymakers to take fleet priorities into account when considering Clean Air Zones and other air quality measures.
Tributes paid to Freddie
The BVRLA has been mourning its Honorary Life President, Freddie Aldous, who died in December. page 5
Industry Outlook
Over 170 members and guest speakers joined the BVRLA at its Industry Outlook Conference in November. page 6
Member inspection improvements launched The AA and CCAS are piloting new approaches in their member inspections. page 7
Membership up in 2017
BVRLA membership grew throughout 2017 to reach a record fleet size – almost 5 million vehicles. page 8
Fair Wear & Tear Guide for Cars under revision
The BVRLA reviews its Fair Wear & Tear standards every three years to ensure they remain current – find out how you can contribute. page 10
BVRLA joins flickr
Now you can see what the association has been up to on the leading image-sharing platform. page 11
2018 Fleet Technology Congress date released
The 2018 Fleet Technology Congress will take place on Thursday 5 July, in Oxfordshire. page 12
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