UK-based HVS (Hydrogen Vehicle Systems) is urging for the implementation of a ‘pay-as-you-pollute’ carbon-based pricing scheme on fossil-fuelled heavy vehicles in order to clean up the UK’s air more quickly. The idea is that if commercial operations are charged for every kilo of carbon their vehicles emit, it will incentivize the transition to clean technology. HVS believes that setting carbon reduction targets alone will not be enough unless accompanied by stronger policy measures. The question arises: is imposing more taxes the solution?
This call comes in response to a letter signed by over 40 prominent companies, including Nestle, Pepsico, and Nike, which was sent to the European Union (EU). The letter urges European policymakers to draft more ambitious CO2 standards and accelerate the production of zero-emission electric and hydrogen trucks at scale. HVS emphasizes the need for strategic policy proposals to complement the set targets.
Currently, Daimler predicts it will have a complete set of CO2-neutral vehicles available by 2039, and Volvo aims to hit 50% by 2030 with a full range by 2040. However, less than 2% of the trucks Volvo is currently shipping to the UK and Europe are electric. To effectively reduce emissions, meet targets, and accelerate the adoption of clean heavy goods vehicles, HVS proposes a series of policy levers. It advocates for a new taxation system through the implementation of a carbon emissions price escalator on fossil-fuelled vehicles. This initiative would gradually increase the price of diesel, incentivizing the adoption of zero-emission and alternative fuel vehicles by making their total cost of ownership more favorable.
HVS was founded in the UK in 2017 with aims similar to those of Equipmake and Volta, specifically to disrupt the commercial vehicle industry through innovative powertrain design and the production of advanced zero-emission commercial vehicles. HVS focuses on fuel cells designed to be coupled with a green hydrogen source.
In addition to the call for a new carbon-pollution tax, HVS is also calling for EU-wide support for operators purchasing zero-emission vehicles based on their emissions from well to wheel. Furthermore, the company suggests the implementation of more comprehensive road pricing scaled to carbon emissions. These measures would strengthen the economic case for early adoption and drive faster uptake of sustainable solutions.
HVS aims to be at the forefront of developing cleaner haulage solutions. Its 40-tonne zero-emission Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) boasts a class-leading 370-mile range, significantly contributing to the transition to zero-emission hydrogen commercial transportation.
The manufacturer is looking for stronger regulations for the EU’s 2030 CO2 reduction mission, specifically to move the target from 45% to 65%, which it believes will drive greater progress. By taking proactive measures sooner, the coalition behind the letter to the EU aims to see over 150,000 additional green trucks on Europe’s roads in 2030 compared to the European Commission’s proposed target.
Jawad Khursheed, CEO of HVS, expressed the urgency for the transition to zero-emission heavy goods vehicles, stating that “We need to do more than simply call for carbon reduction targets – these must be backed by a series of policy levers to effectively deliver them, which is why HVS believes the best approach is for carbon pricing.”
HVS’ hydrogen-electric HGV features advanced technology, including a fuel cell stack that enables longer range, higher load-carrying capacity, and faster refueling compared to battery-electric technology alone. The vehicle’s powertrain also incorporates a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) to recapture energy under braking and deceleration. HVS’ advanced control system ‘SEMAS’ monitors interactions between drivers and control systems, delivering class-leading fuel efficiency and durability. The HGV emits only water vapor, ensuring zero greenhouse gas emissions.
HVS projects that, based on conservative sales projections, the new fleet of hydrogen HGVs in the UK could prevent more CO2 and noxious air emissions than the reported annual emissions of Heathrow airport by 2030. This highlights the significant potential environmental benefits of adopting green hydrogen as an infinitely renewable fuel.
Green hydrogen, the fuel used by HVS’ vehicles, is produced using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. In the fuel cell, hydrogen recombines with oxygen from the air to produce heat, power, and water. According to Khursheed, the UK is a leader in green hydrogen production, supply, and storage.
HVS Demands New Tax for Polluters Based on Usage
Introduction
In an era where environmental concerns have gained paramount importance, it is crucial for societies to prioritize sustainable practices. The issue of pollution, particularly air pollution, has become a major concern globally. In this context, the Humanitarian and Environmental Vanguard Society (HVS) has proposed a new tax system that imposes charges on polluters based on their usage and emission levels. This proposition aims to hold individuals, corporations, and industries accountable for their adverse impact on the environment and to encourage them towards adopting greener practices.
The Need for a New Tax System
The current tax structure primarily focuses on revenue generation rather than promoting eco-friendly behavior. The absence of specific taxes targeted at polluters has allowed numerous entities to exploit environmental resources without bearing the responsibility for their actions. Consequently, society must address this issue by implementing a tax system that reflects the extent of ecological damage.
HVS’s Proposal
The Humanitarian and Environmental Vanguard Society proposes the introduction of a Pollution Usage Tax (PUT) to counter the detrimental effects of pollution. PUT would be levied on individuals, corporations, and industries based on their consumption patterns and corresponding emissions. This tax system would encourage the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable practices, while also providing a much-needed boost to environmental preservation efforts.
Implementation
The implementation of the Pollution Usage Tax will require thorough planning and cooperation between government bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the public. A balanced approach, taking into account economic considerations, is essential to ensure that industries and individuals can transition to greener practices without facing undue financial burdens. Therefore, the HVS emphasizes the importance of conducting detailed impact assessments and engaging in open dialogue with all relevant stakeholders.
Benefits of the Proposed Tax System
The introduction of a Pollution Usage Tax carries a multitude of benefits for both the environment and society. Firstly, it serves as a deterrent against environmentally harmful practices, incentivizing individuals and industries to reduce their emissions by adopting greener alternatives. Secondly, the revenue generated from this tax can be allocated towards funding environmental conservation projects, supporting research and development of eco-friendly technologies, and creating awareness programs.
Furthermore, the introduction of this tax system would fundamentally shift the burden of pollution towards those responsible for it. By charging polluters based on their consumption and emission levels, it becomes economically favorable to reduce pollution and invest in sustainable technologies. This system aligns economic incentives with environmental protection, creating a win-win situation for both society and the planet.
Conclusion
In light of the urgent need to address environmental degradation caused by pollution, the Humanitarian and Environmental Vanguard Society has proposed the implementation of a Pollution Usage Tax. This tax system serves as an effective mechanism to encourage individuals, corporations, and industries to adopt greener practices and bear the responsibility for their ecological footprint. By providing economic incentives for sustainability, this tax system promises to contribute significantly towards building a greener and more sustainable future. It is imperative for governments, NGOs, and the public to collaborate in its implementation and work towards ensuring a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations.