Implementation of the ZFE in Toulouse: “a real blow” for mechanics
Toulouse mechanics take a dim view of the implementation of the ZFE. Their customers who own excessively polluting vehicles should no longer be driving.
From March 1, the oldest vans will no longer be able to circulate in Toulouse. From 2023, Crit’Air 4 and 5 cars and motorcycles will be banned. Finally, in 2024, Crit’Air 3 vignettes could no longer circulate in the Low Emission Zone (ZFE) of Toulouse Métropole. For automotive professionals, and in particular Toulouse mechanics, this is a “hard blow”. “Some of the customers ride in old models. Or, they could no longer drive, in less than a year for some, and in less than two years for others. Some independent garages, already subject to strong competition, will close shop, that’s for sure, ”explains Raymond Vié, president of Mobilians 31 (ex-CNPA), representing automotive professionals in Haute-Garonne.
1,500 car-related companies in Toulouse, according to Mobilians
The professional union puts forward figures. From March 1, 17% of utility vehicles and heavy goods vehicles in the metropolis could no longer circulate in the ZFE, i.e. 2% of the total fleet. In 2023, 14% of the total car fleet in Toulouse Métropole will no longer be able to circulate in the ZFE. Finally, according to Mobilians, 38% of the current vehicle fleet will no longer be able to cycle in the ZFE on January 1, 2024. This figure is increased to 46.5% of the vehicle fleet if we add the neighboring intermunicipalities. “These figures are taken from the statistical directory of road vehicles”, specifies Raymond Vié.
“We really fear for the economy of this sector, which weighs 1,500 companies in Toulouse alone, explains Raymond Vié. The major auto centers will preferably favor them, to the detriment of the players who will be within the perimeter of the ZFE. We hope that the metropolis will be able to listen to the economic actors of the territory. Derogations must be granted, and why not reduce the hours of application, as in Paris”.