The Shift to Euro 4 Technology: Why it Matters for your Business and the Environment
25 SEPTEMBER 2023
Worldwide, countries are embracing the shift towards cleaner and safer technology for vehicles used for passenger and cargo transportation. Governments are progressively promoting the shift to alternative fuels and electrification for heavy-commercial vehicles by enacting legislation that ensures that only vehicles with the suitable emission standards are allowed on the roads.
In Kenya, the Government has taken steps to establish new regulations regarding emission standards which local vehicle assemblers will be required to adopt. These regulations involve transitioning from the previous standards, which have been in place since 2000, to the more environmentally friendly Euro 4 emission standards as specified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KS 1515:2019). Initially, the enforcement deadline for these regulations was set for 2021, but after negotiations with industry stakeholders, it was extended to January 2023. However, an order was issued by the Environment and Land Court to suspend the implementation of KS 1515:2019, and the case is still pending a verdict to date.
Similarly, neighbouring East African nations such as Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and Tanzania are also working towards cleaner air by adopting higher emission standards for imported vehicles. Rwanda, for instance, implemented mandatory vehicle emission testing in 2015. To address the variations in emission standards across the region, the Partnership for Clean Fuels and Vehicles (PCFV) developed a roadmap to harmonise these standards within the East African Community (EAC). This roadmap aims to bridge disparities in terminology, emission limits, vehicle age limits, inspection frequencies, test methods, institutional frameworks, taxation policies and scrappage regulations. The goal of this harmonisation process was to establish uniform emission standards across East Africa. This collective effort is anticipated to significantly enhance air quality, public health, and overall environmental sustainability throughout the region.
If these proposed laws are implemented, they will have significant benefits for transporters, vehicle manufacturers, dealers, the community and the environment. The adoption of Euro 4 emission standards in Kenya will necessitate vehicle manufacturers and dealers to only sell vehicles that comply with the new regulations, promoting cleaner and more environmentally friendly transport solutions. While this transition may involve initial investments in newer Euro 4-compliant vehicles, it offers several advantages for business owners. Adhering to higher emission standards will enhance their reputation as responsible and sustainable transport providers, attracting environmentally conscious customers and enhancing their market competitiveness. Additionally, cleaner technologies lead to long-term cost savings, as Euro 4 vehicles are fuel-efficient and produce fewer emissions, reducing operational expenses. Furthermore, the focus on compliance and enforcement measures, such as vehicle inspection and testing centres, will encourage fleet owners to maintain their vehicles in optimal condition, contributing to improved overall performance, reliability and safety.
At Scania, as part of our vision of driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system, our new product offering reflects this vision. Our P440 and P380 Euro 4 trucks recently launched in the Kenyan market are equipped with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) Reductant Tank that utilises AdBlue to effectively reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from the vehicles. This technology underscores our dedication to reducing environmental impact from vehicle emissions and promoting cleaner transport solutions.
As a leading manufacturer of trucks of all applications, buses and coaches, we firmly believe in the significance of sustainable mobility for a greener future. Through continuous research and development, collaboration with industry partners and policymakers, and investment in alternative fuels and electrification, Scania is committed to pioneering innovations that advance sustainable transport and contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet for generations to come. Our efforts are aligned with global sustainability goals, and we strive to lead the industry in creating a more eco-friendly and efficient transport ecosystem.
Are you ready to make the shift towards a sustainable transport system? Visit our digital showroom here to view our Euro 4 truck range.
