(DFT) White Van Man goes Green

Van buyers will find it easier to cut emissions and save money due to a new van CO2 data base launched by Transport Secretary Andrew Adonis today.

The online database - the biggest of its kind in Europe - has been compiled by the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA), Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and Department for Transport (DfT). It allows users to search for new van models on the UK market and compare their CO2 emissions and the fuel consumption.

Vans make up around 15% of road transport emissions in the UK and their emissions are rising at the highest rate of any road vehicle. If everybody buying a new van bought the most fuel efficient model in its class the average buyer could save up to 17% on both CO2 emissions and fuel costs.

Launching the database at the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership's annual conference in London today, Transport Secretary Andrew Adonis said:
"It's important to help motoring consumers make the right choice, both for themselves and for the environment.

"This database is good news for van buyers - it gives them access to emissions and fuel consumption information that could well shape the van they choose, as well as enable them to cut emissions and save money.

"At a time when the Government is working hard to create a stable financial environment to encourage long-term investment in the motoring industry this tool is also good news for van producers by stimulating interest and demand in the models they make."

Speaking on behalf of the industry, SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said:

"Van makers are all committed to providing information that will help buyers make better informed choices and this database provides a level playing field for easy comparison. We believe that our efforts in assisting government departments compile this information will not only impact positively on tailpipe CO2 emissions but will also help buyers select the most economical vehicle they need for their business."

The database can be accessed on the Business Link website alongside tips for van buyers on how to choose the right van for their needs and how to save fuel costs from the way they use the vehicle

(DFT) Making it easier to tackle inconsiderate and dangerous parking

English local authorities will be able to tackle inconsiderate and dangerous parking more easily, Transport Minister Paul Clark confirmed today.

From June, councils which carry out parking enforcement will be able to issue Penalty Charge Notices to motorists who park at dropped kerbs or double-park, without the need for these prohibitions to be indicated with specific traffic signs or road markings. This follows consultation which showed strong support for the move.

Authorities in London have successfully used this tool for a number of years to help wheelchair users and those with prams manoeuvre on and off pavements - as well as stopping inconsiderate motorists from blocking residents' driveways. It has also helped deter motorists from blocking the road when parking.

Transport Minister Paul Clark said:

"Dropped kerbs are there to help wheelchair users and those with powered mobility vehicles or prams get around easily and safely. They also allow residents to access their garages and driveways.

"The Highway Code is clear that drivers should not stop or park in such places and we believe placing of traffic signs or road markings to indicate these restrictions should not be necessary - as is the case in London. The same rules will apply to double parking - a dangerous activity that causes an unnecessary obstruction of the road, putting all road users at risk.

"While we believe signs and markings are not necessary in these circumstances, we expect local authorities who want to use these powers to do so in a fair and transparent manner and publicise their plans to do so. All other restrictions will continue to require clear signs and markings."

Chair of the Joint Committee on Mobility for Disabled People Joe Hennessy said:

"Inconsiderate parking at dropped kerbs is a substantial barrier to the mobility of disabled people particularly at crossing points. The committee wholeheartedly support these new regulations."

Those who park across entranceways to private properties should only be penalised if the owner of the property requests that the council takes action.

Today's move will improve national consistency by bringing the rest of England in line with authorities in London where dropped kerb and double parking restrictions do not have to be indicated with signs or markings. It will also help reduce street clutter by limiting the number of signs at the roadside.

(DFT) Motorists warned of the dangers of texting at the wheel

The dangers of texting while driving are highlighted in a new hard-hitting THINK! campaign launched today by Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick after research showed that 30% of young drivers admitted to texting at the wheel.

Using a mobile phone at the wheel is considered the second most unacceptable driving behaviour among motorists with 93% agreeing that texting while driving is dangerous. However, 12% of all motorists admit to texting while driving.

The new radio advert features a driver's voice spelling out a text message followed by the harrowing sound of a car crash.

An online 'driving challenge' game - which demonstrates how using a mobile at the wheel can completely distract the driver - is being circulated online via social networking communities and entertainment sites. In addition, the shocking THINK! TV ad will be returning to our screens to remind callers to 'kill the conversation' as soon as they realise that someone is driving.

Jim Fitzpatrick said:

"It doesn't matter how good a driver you are, if you text while driving then you cannot be giving the road your full attention.

"The message that mobile phones and driving should not mix is getting through to the majority of drivers but some people are still needlessly risking their own lives and putting others in danger for the sake of a text or a call.

"Our message to all drivers is simple: Don't use your mobile phone when you're driving."

The new radio advert will launch on Monday 4th May and is particularly targeted at young drivers.