Lorries that are better for environment face lower fees to use UK roads

Lorries that are better for the environment will pay less to use UK roads under plans unveiled by ministers.

From February next year, lorries that meet the latest Euro VI emissions standards will be eligible for a 10% reduction in the cost of the Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) levy.

The cleanest lorries generate 80% less nitrogen emissions than dirtier ones.

Euro V and older vehicles, which do not meet the latest emissions standards, will pay 20% more than the current rates.

Roads Minister Jesse Norman said: "This Government is committed to improving the air we breathe and delivering a green revolution in transport.

"Heavy goods vehicles account for around a fifth of harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from road transport, but they only travel 5% of the total miles.

"That's why we're changing the HGV levy to encourage firms to phase out the most polluting lorries and bring in the cleanest ones."

The HGV road user levy, introduced in 2014, was brought in as a first step to ensure lorries pay a charge to cover the higher wear and tear they cause road surfaces compared to other vehicles.

• Current rate - £1,000

• Euro VI rate from Feb 2019 - £900

• Euro 0-V rate from Feb 2019 - £1,200

Ministers hope the change to the levy will further incentivise the industry to choose less polluting lorries.

When the change comes into effect, more than half of UK vehicles will pay less.

Environment Minister Therese Coffey said: "Air pollution has improved significantly since 2010, but we recognise there is more to do which is why we have put in place a £3.5 billion plan to improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions.

"Poor air quality affects public health, the economy, and the environment, and all motorists, including hauliers, must play their part if we are to clean up our air for the next generation."