The government could start by imposing a heavy fine on VW for cheating the emissions tests on their Diesel vehicles sold in the UK – and use the money to reduce the nitrogen dioxide in the atmosphere.
This is how such fines should be used, rather than fattening the exchequer’s coffers – as appears to be the case with virtually every fine imposed by regulators within the UK, with the victims getting nothing.
Looks like Gordon Brown got it wrong. I predict the first measures will be a significant rise in vehicle tax, or in a lot of cases, cars which are currently charged £0, to be charged. That will then effect company car choices which will influence the car sellers to incentivise petrol models.
The biggest problem with diesel engines is the amount of particulates and nitrogen dioxide gas produced in cities and other congested areas. Car drivers have a choice. Diesel engines in cars could be banned outright but the amount of greenhouse carbon dioxide gas emitted would increase.
What about commercial vehicles, trains and ships ? There is no such choice for HGV companies and shipping companies.
I would have though the high mileage a derv can reach in comparison to a petrol should say it all, 2>>300.000 in some cases & still going, providing the derv has oil / filter / fuel changes often it will out last the petrol,can you honestly see the eventual cease in sales of Diesel's? I doubt it very much, they will have too much to loose, regards Elctric cars, how long would it take you from Glasgow to London known how many Hook Up Point there are to recharge.
Had one for about 5 years: tend to run cars into the ground anyway so resale value less of an issue for me, but other ways of bullying would be less avoidable. If the authorities want to phase out diesels they should ensure they aren't sold new (perhaps save to licenced buyers) and let the existing owners alone.
We are already concerned about electricity supply. Regardless of how many power points can be provided and how long it takes to fill up, the last thing we need is to increase demand for electricity now.