The Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) (Amendment) Regulation 2006 will tighten emission standards, in tandem with the European Union's requirement for newly registered heavy duty vehicles and motorcycles. The amendment, once approved, will take effect on October 1.

The Environmental Protection Department has been introducing the most stringent motor vehicle fuel and emission standards as soon as they can be made available to the local market.

On January 1, the department started implementing in phases Euro IV standards for light duty vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes.

The proposed amendment aims to tighten the emission standard for the remaining vehicle class, those over 3.5 tonnes, to Euro IV level from October 1.

It also requires all newly registered motorcycles to comply with Euro III emission standards from January 1, 2007.

Standards cut emissions by 30%+

A  Euro IV heavy duty vehicle emits about 30% less nitrogen oxides and 80% less particulates than a Euro III model, while A Euro III motorcycle emits about 90%  less hydrocarbons and 50% less nitrogen oxides than an existing model.

Japan and US standards will also be accepted whenever they have the same effectiveness in reducing emissions.

The amendment will be tabled at the Legislative Council for vetting on May 24. Subject to approval, it will take effect on October 1.