Diesel scrappage scheme: Now PETROL drivers will be urged to ditch their cars in London

In a statement yesterday Islington Council outlined how they aim to be one of the leading boroughs in cleaning up London’s air quality. 

Over the next 12 months they will look to increase the amount of electric charge points in the borough from 10 to over 100. 

The Council are hoping that the fast-chargers will encourage the uptake of electric vehicles across the borough. 

As well as traditional electric car chargers, Islington Council is looking to roll out a number of innovative refuelling systems.

These include fast-charging lampposts which will fully charge a car in three to four hours and rapid charge units which will regenerate 80 per cent of the car’s power in just 30 minutes. 

Cllr Claudia Webbe, executive member for environment and transport, said: “Tackling poor air quality and diesel emissions are two of the biggest issues – not only for residents but for Islington and London as a whole.

“This is not a trial – we are taking the lead and rolling out this cutting-edge technology in our streets, and will continue to explore every avenue to help improve our air.”

The council are also encouraging petrol drivers to ditch their cars for an electric one. 

“We know that some people need to drive in London, so the easier we make it for them to ditch their petrol or diesel vehicles in favour of electric ones, the better” added Cllr Claudia Webbe. 

The new charging bays will be installed in current areas of demand first, followed by a rollout of chargers across the borough. 

Islington Council are also working with car club companies operating in the Borough on bringing electric vehicles into their fleet in future. 

The rollout complements the Mayor of London’s Air Quality Strategy, and will also see black cabs start to switch to electric engines from 2018.

Diesel cars are being scrutinised across the country but this is the first time petrol car have come under fire. 

From October, diesel drivers in London will be charged an additional £10 toxicity charge on top of the £11.50 congestion charge.