ACCORDING to new data, nearly 3,000 drivers were fined for breaching Glasgow’s low emission zone (LEZ) in its first month. Introduced on 1st June to try to tackle air pollution in the city centre, the zone bans higher polluting vehicles in a square mile in the city centre. But as the first month’s data proves, not all motorists have access to vehicles that comply.
Tackling the issue, Europcar Mobility Group UK is providing local businesses and residents with access to compliant vehicles to meet their needs.
Non-compliant vehicles entering the specified zone are subject to a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £60 for the first day, doubling for each subsequent breach within a 90-day window up to a maximum of £480 per day for cars and light goods vehicles. To avoid the risk of an unaffordable fine, Europcar offers a range of LEZ compliant cars and vans as well as a growing choice of electric and hybrid models.
“People who live inside the Glasgow LEZ are exempt from charges until 1st June 2024, but this doesn’t apply to businesses or visitors” commented Mark Newberry, Europcar Mobility Group UK Commercial Director and Sustainability spokesperson. “We are pleased to be able to help residents and businesses by giving them access to a range of low and zero emission vehicles that will not incur penalty charges. This provides valuable peace of mind while also enabling drivers to be compliant and reduce air pollution in Glasgow.”
The Europcar electric fleet includes three models in the Mercedes-EQ range, the Tesla Model 3, ORA Funky Cat and MG4. EVs are available for rentals from locations around the UK including branches in Glasgow and Edinburgh. And customers hiring an electric car from Europcar are provided with a comprehensive vehicle handover for a seamless commitment-free electric motoring experience.
Not only does an electric rental help businesses and individuals avoid penalties for driving polluting vehicles inside the Low Emission Zone. It also allows drivers to get a true, real-world electric driving experience, before committing to a long-term lease or choosing to buy an electric vehicle outright.
