Van buyers can take advantage of new incentives to purchase cleaner vehicles, which are being offered ahead of changes to the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in London.

From January 3 2012 larger vans, minibuses and certain other specialist vehicle will need to meet specified emissions standards.

If the standards are not met vehicle owners will need to pay a £100 daily charge to drive within Greater London or risk a £500 penalty.

While the new standards will quadruple the number of vehicles affected by the LEZ most vehicles driving in London already meet the new standards.

Renault and Fiat have pledged to provide the owners of around 72,000 larger vans and minibuses that will need to take action to avoid the charges more affordable ways to buy cleaner vehicles.

Gerry Clarke, director for Fiat Professional, said: “Fiat is offering a bespoke finance package on selected models, designed to meet the needs of these specific customers. It’s a combination of VAT only deposit, coupled with a six-month payment holiday and a low rate (1.1% APR) of interest. Many customers will therefore not need to make any repayments until after the first charges come into effect on 3 January 2012.”

Renault is offering up to £2,900 off the Kangoo van range, up to £4,600 off the Trafic van and passenger range and up to £6,000 off the Master range depending on the model.

These companies join existing deals from Ashwoods, Citroën, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot and Volkswagen announced by the Mayor of London Boris Johnson last month.

In addition to buying a new vehicle, affected operators could buy a second hand vehicle that meets the standards or fit an approved filter.
 

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