Diesel drivers could be banned 'as quickly as possible' under new crackdown

Diesel drivers will be targeted and could be banned "as quickly as possible" under new strict proposals. Vehicles using diesel should be banned earlier than 2035 after sales plunged dramatically amid the government's push towards net-zero, according to officials at Transport and Environment (T&E).

Campaigners have claimed the government can ensure diesel engines are “ditched for good”. Matt Finch, UK policy Manager at Transport & Environment, claimed motorists should “stop burning” diesel and transition to cleaner models immediately.

He explained: “Regardless of the impact of the ULEZ on air pollution, this data shows the remarkable impact clean air zones can have on energy and trade. Diesel is another dirty fossil fuel that the UK has found itself reliant on imports for, often from countries with undemocratic Governments that have poor human rights records.

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“The smart move would be to follow London’s lead, stop burning imported dirty diesel and switch to using clean British electrons as quickly as possible.” They claimed national rules should also “specifically target” reducing diesel use.

Oliver Lord, UK head of Clean Cities Campaign, has also called for an urgent ban on diesel vehicles. He commented: “We’ve known for years that diesel fumes are ruining our lives so it’s inspiring to see this change in London, but the bottom line is we won’t breathe freely until diesel engines are ditched for good."

The calls come amid a rollout of Ulez and Cleam Air Zone-style driving zones and neighbourhoods, introducing emissions rules and curbing speed limits. Mr Lord went on, saying: “With the right commitment, coordination and leadership from all levels of Government our cities can be almost free of diesel by 2030, but only when coupled with the support to make that happen and especially for small businesses.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak previously rowed back on his petrol and diesel ban, delaying it until 2035.

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