Green Your Transport

The cost of travel for businesses is increasing. It is estimated that by 2025 there will be 50% more cars on the road than there were in 1997, resulting in more traffic jams, reduced efficiency and increasing impact on the environment. The type of vehicle you drive has a fundamental effect on transport-related costs and environmental impact.

Cleaner, more fuel-efficient cars are rewarded by linking the tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs) charge to the car's exhaust emissions, in particular CO2. You may also be able to save on the amount of Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) charged, which is linked to a car's exhaust emissions. Further details can be found on the website of HM Revenue & Customs.

 

What you can do:

 

  • Instead of driving a gas guzzler, buy or lease fuel-efficient cars. Check on a car's fuel consumption and exhaust emissions figures on the website of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

  • Fuel consumption, accident rates and CO2 emissions can be reduced by driving smarter. You can find more tips on smart driving here.

  • Consider purchasing an alternatively-fuelled car or a hybrid car. Cleaner fuels can help reduce your operating, maintenance and fuel costs. If you live in London, you could also qualify for a discount on the Congestion Charge. The Energy Savings Trust has more information on alternative fuels.