MCIA CEO, Tony Campbell this week addressed a packed room of attendees spanning from political influencers to representatives of industry giants, and third sector stakeholders at the launch of Honda Europe’s 2023 Environmental Report Launch, speaking on a panel alongside Honda Europe’s Vice President, Ian Howells.
The Environmental Report set out Honda’s multi-pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality for all products and activities globally by 2050, and covered Honda’s efforts to reduce emissions in its supply chain, logistics and product range.
Ian Howells’ presentation on the green innovation underway at Honda prompted a far-reaching discussion on what the future of transport could, should and will look like among panellists.
Tony set out the key role mopeds, motorcycles and other powered light vehicles (PLV) have to play, as part of a decarbonised and integrated transport network.
Tony underscored the numerous environmental and mobility benefits of PLVs such as greater energy efficiency and efficient use of road space reducing congestion, as well as their favourable life cycle emissions compared to other modes of transport, as proven by MCIA and Zemo Partnership’s lifecycle analysis study.
Our transport systems must be dynamic and incorporate a variety of solutions for the different challenges faced in urban, sub-urban and rural areas. PLVs have a key role to play where public transport is insufficient and active travel is impractical. More versatile than cars, yet more robust than bicycles, PLVs can occupy an otherwise unfilled gap in an integrated transport network.
Tony called on the Government and local authorities to not only consider the environmental benefits of increased PLV usage, but also the economic value, stressing that PLV access is part and parcel of ensuring a city’s economic health.
Tony highlighted that cities which made it easier to ride on powered two, three and light four-wheelers would reap the benefits of a thriving urban ecosystem where goods and people flow freely.
Following the launch Tony Campbell said: “As we navigate the future of transport, it's clear our sector can play a key role in supporting Government in its net-zero ambitions. I commend Honda for responding to the challenges posed by the race to carbon neutrality, with innovation and cutting-edge technology. Honda is demonstrating that industry will work with the Government, now the Government must step up its support for the sector.
While the Department for Transport increasingly recognises the environmental value this sector represents, it is now critical all departments across Government collaborate to fully realise this industry's potential.
Local authorities must be encouraged to consider PLVs as a transport solution to tackle diverse mobility challenges for people, goods, and businesses.
To ensure our local transport networks are dynamic and robust, Motorcycles & other PLV’s must be considered alongside active travel and public transport. Our sector can be part of an integrated transport solution, slotting in to provide affordable, independent mobility when single-occupancy car or van use is unnecessary, or in places where public transport is insufficient and active travel is impractical."