Mercedes-Benz Retail is looking to attract light commercial vehicle customers with test drives in November ahead of government changes to London’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) regulations.

From January 1, 2012 any vans registered before January 1, 2002 weighing more than 1.205 tonnes unladen to 3.5 tonnes will not comply with emission standards in the designated London area, meaning they will incur daily penalty charges.

The manufacturer-owned dealer group is urging LCV customers with old vans to act early to avoid getting daily penalties.

Mark Middleton, customer service manager at Mercedes-Benz Retail Group, is advising that LCV drivers can ensure their vehicle complies with the new standards through small changes: but only if they act immediately.

He said: “The 2012 Low Emission Zone changes will have a huge impact on LCV drivers in London
“Many companies and individuals might be tempted to put off addressing the issue; however some adjustments, such as fitting a filter to your van to reduce its emission levels, need to be made now in order for them to be approved before January.”

Mercedes-Benz Retail will be holding dedicated van test drive events during November at its sites in Brentford, Colindale, Croydon and East London.