In its report, the EU said air pollution limits were exceeded in 16 zones including Greater London and Greater Manchester, and added that 15 of these zones would take until 2020 to reach the limits set out for 2010. Greater London, meanwhile, would take until 2025 to reach the original targets. 

In response, Neil Broad, general manager of Toyota & Lexus Fleet Services, said: ‘Poor air quality is an issue for all of us. Despite their other advantages and their use of expensive catalytic converters and filters, diesel-engine vehicles are a major source of harmful pollution. The EU has reported that levels of nitrogen dioxide, are “excessive” in many British cities. With a petrol full hybrid, particulate emissions are entirely eliminated and NOx levels are on average a tenth of the diesel limit set by the forthcoming Euro 6 legislation.’ 

He added: ‘A petrol full hybrid has substantial company tax and personal tax (Benefit in Kind) advantages over a diesel. Then there is the petrol hybrid’s low fuel consumption to consider. Over the vehicle’s lifetime you will also see savings in maintenance costs, as a petrol hybrid has no starter motor, drive belts, alternator or clutch to service or replace. Even brake wear is reduced, thanks to regenerative braking recycling energy to the battery.’ 

As an illustration Toyota & Lexus Fleet Services says that a Lexus CT 200h S will save companies £4,000 in a typical three-year 60,000 mile cycle compared to a competitor’s diesel equivalent. At the same time, the driver will save £2,000 in BiK personal tax. 

Neil Broad concluded: ‘The right choice is a vehicle that minimises damage to lives, health and the environment. Thankfully, in the case of petrol hybrids, that choice also makes complete economic sense.’ 

Business drivers can find out how much they will save in tax by using the MyCompanyCar App, available via the Apple App Store. For companies, the website www.brilliantforbusiness.co.uk/hybrid gives further information on the case for petrol hybrids and offers a personalised fleet financial health check and report.