Frigoblock quizzes TfL over emissions question

Frigoblock has questioned why Transport for London (TfL) does not consider the emissions from truck refrigeration units entering the London Low Emissions Zone (LEZ). Managing director John Winter says many trailer refrigeration units would not even reach Euro-2 standards, yet they are allowed to enter the LEZ. "Trucks entering London have to be a minimum of Euro-3, but there is no control on fridge engines which seems strange to me."

He adds that an industrial standard for fridge engines was introduced in December 2007, but they do not have to meet any emissions standards. Frigoblock's own fridge engines are hybrid diesel electric units, which are based on the Mercedes-Benz Smart engine, and they meet Euro-5 standards.

UPDATE - Comment from TfL:

A TfL spokesperson said: "Vehicles with refrigeration units make up a very small proportion of the fleet operating in London and the emissions from these units are minimal compared to those from diesel-engined lorries. TfL believes that the Low Emission Zone standards strike an appropriate balance between operator needs and air quality improvements and health benefits.  It would not currently be practical to set emissions standards for refrigeration units."