A new report suggests that London's upcoming emissions-linked congestion charge could actually be bad for the environment.
What's more, the discouraging results come from Transport for London (TfL), the organisers of the charge, motoring website Clean Green Cars reports.
Under current plans, all cars emitting 120g/km of carbon dioxide would pay for entering a newly-created Low Emissions Zone (LEZ), covering most of the city.
The charge would be £25 - adding to drivers' financial strain of car insurance, tax and £1 per litre petrol along with the existing congestion charge.
According to the TfL report, it would be the fact that all cars emitting less than 120g/km would be exempt from the charge that will be crucial in undermining its environmental impact.
The general move within the motor industry towards low-emitting vehicles could lead to increased numbers enjoying 'free driving' within LEZ - therefore making total emissions worse.
To remedy this problem, Clean Green Charge suggests a lowering of the limit to 110g/km - and the application of a minimum £4 charge for all within the zone.
The scheme is scheduled to be imposed in London next month.
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