So says Manheim Remarketing, which believes that the new regulations, which come into effect from 3 January 2012, will have an impact on the majority of small businesses and sole traders who tend to use older vehicles

From this date, the LEZ regulations will include pre-Euro 3 engines, affecting owners of large vans, 4×4 utility and pick-ups with an unladen weight greater than 1.205 tonnes, and registered before 1 January 2002. Minibuses over 9 seats also need to be compliant.

Although firms can fit an approved particulate filter, the cost for this could exceed £2,000 and the process could take around three months. With extended new vehicle supply lead times and restricted availability of finance, Manheim claims that the likelihood is that many businesses may buy a younger used commercial vehicle.

James Davis, general manager, commercial vehicles, Manheim Remarketing, said: 'Up to 70,000 vans could be impacted by these LEZ changes. Our research into retail customers' search patterns indicates that they will use internet search engines to find the right van, irrespective of the dealer's location relative to the LEZ.'