This month, our contributors have their say on reports that the Government is considering a scrappage scheme for older diesel cars in an attempt to reduce emissions.
David Clarke
Managing Director, Autosupplies (Chesterfield)
“Motorists with a diesel vehicle more than 10 years old are expected to be offered substantial discounts off low-emission replacements, meaning an increase in newer vehicles, consequently having a wider impact on the aftermarket.
“Although we welcome a ‘green agenda’, we have to look at this from an industry perspective and it is not necessarily all good news as our core market is vehicles that are aged three years onwards.
“More investigation needs to be carried out to explore the root of the emissions problem, particularly in London, rather than just attributing it to diesel vehicles. There are many sides to this argument. Is it just a ploy to maintain the roll out of newer vehicles on the road?
“Ultimately, the introduction of newer vehicles has a big impact on the aftermarket and motor factors should be helping garages raise awareness and promote a motorist’s right to choose where they take their vehicle for repair and maintenance.
“We could well start to see a decrease in diesel vehicles in the near future and therefore we have to be prepared for this disruption to our market as it will require further changes in regards to how we operate and stocking.
“This is yet another example of how the IAM is evolving. We need to think ahead and expect substantial developments in the upcoming years, such as the growth of hybrids and electric vehicles. This is another challenge we will be faced with and as an industry we cannot ignore these changes as we risk getting left behind.”
Peter Welch
Proprietor, Scotland’s Ash Garage
“It wasn’t that long ago that diesel was being hailed as the cleanest and most effective fuel on the market, and now it is being cast as the enemy with the Department of Transport and Environment reportedly looking to start removing diesel vehicles off UK roads altogether. “Naturally this is going to have an unnecessary impact on our market – there is already government legislation in place, such as MOT testing, that determines if a vehicle is roadworthy and ensures emissions are controlled.
“The aftermarket can provide a cost-effective, immediate solution to reduce emissions from vehicles currently on UK roads and motorists need to be aware that there are alternatives to trading in their diesel vehicle.
“There are tools in the aftermarket that remove stubborn carbon, tar and varnishes from a number of internal engine components while reducing harmful vehicle emissions.
“There are also services available that thoroughly cleans the diesel particulate filter (DPF) – a key component in the prevention of emissions entering the environment.
“We recognise the growing concern surrounding emissions and have therefore invested in this technology to ensure we don’t lose out to the vehicle manufacturers that are sure to try and guide the growing number of newer vehicles back into dealerships.”
