VIA submits feedback on new emissions rule changes

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has made a submission to the New Zealand Government regarding its proposed changes to vehicle emissions legislation.

In May, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) put forward changes to the “Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 2007” which will require new and used imports to meet more strict Euro 5 and 6 emissions standards.

VIA recently acknowledged the amendment and offered its support of “reducing noxious emissions” and stated that it shares the goal of minimising people’s harm from vehicles.

However, the Association also offered some feedback on the new law including the need to prioritise harm reduction, maintain a fair car market, and ensure the needs of New Zealanders are met.

One point it makes note of is the equivalency between European and Japanese emissions standards and argues that the policy must be adjusted to suit both.

“Should the government proceed with currently assigned standard equivalencies, which seem arbitrary and biased towards EU standards, we must object to the current policy on grounds of market fairness and equity,” VIA states.

The Association offered its support for the phase-in timeline for both Euro 5 and 6 standards so long as the Government corrects its equivalencies.

It also recommended a change to the policy that would “proportionally restrict” vehicles based on the amount of harm they cause to the environment. For example, VIA says diesel vehicles should be subject to stricter restrictions.

“By prioritising harm reduction, we can remove a higher percentage of more harmful vehicles, allowing consumers to opt for less harmful alternatives, for which there should remain a wider range of options,” the Association states.

VIA’s submission on the proposed amendments to the Vehicle Exhaust Rule can be read here.

If the amended emissions law is passed as it is, used imports will be required to meet Euro 5 standards immediately, meaning many popular Japanese imports that are currently on sale will no longer be able to enter New Zealand.

The changes will also see Euro 5 shift to Euro 6 between late 2024 and the start of 2028, and introduce an emissions requirement for mopeds and motorcycles.

Consultation on the proposed changes is also open to the public here.