Latest news - February 2013
From 1 March 2013 fines will increase for operators of smoky vehicles. Smoky vehicle operators will now face fines of $2000 for the first two offences. A third offence will attract a $2000 fine as well as an automatic three month suspension of vehicle registration. These enforcement measures were announced by the Minister for Roads and Ports 24 October 2012 as part of the M5 East Air Quality Improvement Program.
RMS will invite heavy vehicle operators whose trucks have been detected by the M5 East smoky vehicle camera system to participate in the Diesel Retrofit and Repair Initiative. For vehicles that qualify, the NSW Government will pay 50 percent of costs, up to $10,000 to assist with engine repairs and fitting a diesel retrofit device.
For more information about the M5 East Tunnel smoky vehicle camera system, Read More >>
This is great news as not only will it improve air quality in the M5 East Tunnel but also across the broader Sydney network. For more information about the 2012 M5 East Air Quality Improvement Program, Read More >>
How does a diesel retrofit work?
The exhaust gases pass over an oxidation catalyst that removes carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, and then through the filter which captures the particles. See below for an example of an emission reducing device.
Former diesel retrofit programs
RMS formerly managed the NSW Diesel Retrofit Program and the NSW Ports Diesel Retrofit Program. These programs closed in 2012.
Under the NSW Diesel Retrofit Program, the NSW Government assisted truck operators to fit 591 heavy diesel vehicles with retrofit devices between 2004 and 2012.
The NSW Ports Diesel Retrofit Program assisted truck operators to fit 79 heavy diesel vehicles with retrofit devices between 2009 and 2012.
If you would like further information about the NSW Diesel Retrofit Program or the NSW Ports Diesel Retrofit Program, please call 02 8588 5527.