What on earth is WLTP?

You’ve heard of ULEZ and CAZ but there’s a new abbreviation in town that could affect you and your fleet: WLTP. Here’s what you need to know.

WLTP stands for Worldwide harmonised Light-duty vehicle Test procedure. It has, along with Real drivings emissions tests (RDE), replaced the New European Driving Cycles. But, it doesn’t have to sound so confusing.

So, onto WTLP. It is a way of measuring both carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption. The tests still take place in a factory setting, but they include more varied conditions and realistic driving habits, to get a better view of how the vehicle behaves on the road.

What does this mean for vans? Well, it came into force in September 2017 for NI Class vans and for NII and NIII in September 2018. In September last year, it became mandatory for all new vans.

The staggered approach was to avoid a sudden surge in costs, which is where fleets come in…

There are a few different taxes that will be affected by the changes:

• Company car tax
• Class 1 NI contributions
• VED
• Corporation tax relief

So do check on these if they apply to you. With the financial stresses comes benefits too:

• You will be exempt from the congestion charge in London
• You will be exempt from clean air zone charges across the country

In the future, more vans will be manufactured to comply with these regulations but for now, an increase in taxes is on the cards. Have a look at different schemes which are available to switch your fleet to more economical motors and do your research on the necessary taxes for your business.

If you need help, advice, or are looking for a used van in Warrington, please get in touch with a member of the team at Cheshire Vehicle Supplies.