VIA calls for emissions rule support
The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) is urging its members and the wider used-imports sector to support its submission on proposed amendments to the vehicle exhaust emissions rule.
Consultation on the proposals is being overseen by the Ministry of Transport (MoT). They include moving used light vehicles to the Euro 5 standard and ensuring new imports comply with Euro 6.
Click here to access the submission and a draft support letter you can download and edit with your details if you agree with it.
“We encourage you to send a letter, on your letterhead, in support of our submission to emissions@transport.govt.nz,” says the association.
When it comes to the letter, senders need to assure themselves that it represents their own views and they can edit it accordingly.
Official consultation documentation can be found by clicking here. In general, VIA supports the move and shows that most used imports already meet the proposed standards to be introduced under amendments to the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 2007.
The letter of support
The letter of support backs the government’s efforts to reduce noxious emissions and minimise harm caused by vehicles, and adds it is essential to consider points raised by VIA to achieve these objectives.
VIA’s submission emphasises the need to prioritise total harm reduction, maintain a fair market and address the transport needs of New Zealanders.
The letter goes on to says: “I fully support VIA’s position on these matters. It is crucial to reduce noxious emissions and their detrimental effects on public health. As responsible members of industry, it’s our duty to supply vehicles that minimise total harm.”
It continues by saying the association supports most of the proposed policy but has concerns about certain factual errors. VIA has offered corrections, particularly regarding the equivalency between Euro and Japanese standards. VIA has provided a quantified model that compares the equivalency of standards and argues that policies should be adjusted accordingly.
“I urge the government to carefully consider these corrections and make the necessary adjustments to ensure a fair market and equity,” adds the letter.
“VIA has also offered a more radical redesign of the proposed standard that would lead to even more harm reduction. This approach prioritises harm reduction by proportionally restricting vehicles based on the amount of harm they cause.
“I believe that this approach would be beneficial in achieving a greater reduction in overall harm and facilitating a smooth transition to the strategies used in Euro 7.
“In conclusion, I believe that the objectives of reducing noxious emissions and minimising harm caused by vehicles are of utmost importance. I encourage the government to consider VIA’s suggestions and make the necessary adjustments to ensure effective legislation that achieves its objectives.”
