A VEHICLE tracking leader has launched new software to help transport companies escape hefty charges in London's Low Emission Zone.
Nearly all lorries weighing more than 3.5 tons, buses and coaches above five tons, minibuses containing eight seats or more and vans exceeding 1.205 tons entering most of Greater London must now pay £200 a day - rising to £1,000 for late payment - following a change in legislation last month (July 7).
However, Navman Wireless, the UK's largest manufacturer of vehicle tracking equipment, has launched a new 'zone report' tool, which can monitor vehicles entering the LEZ, in addition to the congestion zone, to ensure firms are not unnecessarily penalised.
Tony Neill, Executive Vice President of Navman Wireless, said: "The LEZ has had a dramatic impact on virtually all transport firms using Greater London.
"With this new software, drivers and fleet operators can keep a close eye on LEZ expenses and ensure costs are kept to a minimum."
The technology, which is free as part of Navman Wireless's existing OnLineAVL2 system, provides comprehensive information on driver behaviour including real-time updates on location, speed and time spent inside the LEZ.
The LEZ was first launched on February 4, initially affecting lorries weighing more than 12 tons, to cut pollution across Greater London. However, even more vehicles look set to be affected when tougher emissions standards are introduced in January 2012.
Tony added: "While these new measures must be welcomed from an environmental perspective, they will no doubt hit the transport industry hard financially.
"Vehicle tracking puts fleet operators in control - and by enabling businesses to reduce fuel consumption, it is the logical choice for businesses."
A report by the Institute of Transport Management recently found that vehicle tracking can reduce fuel consumption by 14 per cent.