ALD Automotive, in association with Lombard Vehicle Solutions, is to hold a Clean Air Zone day, with the University of the West of England (UWE), to examine the future of business mobility, in light of the introduction of Clean Air Zones (CAZs) across the UK.  

The event is designed to inform employers about measures that can be taken now, as well as to dispel some of the myths surrounding the use of alternatively fuelled vehicles.

To support the event, ALD is working closely with the University of the West of England (UWE) to examine the travel habits of company car drivers commuting into Bristol. 

The research is designed to establish the operational and cost implications of a future Bristol Clean Air Zone for businesses with employees travelling into the city.

The study aims to provide a clearer view of the options available to fleets should the proposed plans to improve air quality across the UK come into effect. 

Although Bristol is not on the Government’s initial list of five cities earmarked for the first CAZs, in a forward-thinking move the council’s action plan includes more investment in public transport and cycling, changes in traffic management and the possibility of introducing a CAZ.

Matt Dale, head of consultancy for ALD, explained:  “There is a lot of misunderstanding around Clean Air Zones and what the implications will be for businesses across the UK.

“When you add to that the confusion surrounding the use of alternatively fuelled vehicles, it is not surprising that companies are genuinely concerned about what they should be doing to prepare for the next few years.  This event will complete the picture and give employers some exciting, positive strategies that they can work on immediately.”

In addition to UWE, an expert panel of guest speakers will provide their perspective on the current plans to improve air quality in the UK, including Bristol City Council, the Energy Saving Trust and Chargemaster, the UK’s biggest name in electric vehicle charging. Motor manufacturers Ford and Kia will also share the advances they are making in sustainable vehicle technology, with Kia providing a sneak peek of the all-new fully electric Kia Niro, with a range just short of 300 miles, at the event itself.

The event is free to attend and is open to all businesses operating company vehicles in the UK, whether they are local to Bristol or not. It will take place at the UWE Bristol Exhibition and Conference Centre (ECC) on Tuesday, November 6, from 9am to 2pm. Attendees can register on the ALD Automotive website at www.aldautomotive.co.uk.

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