Vehicle choices, and what fuels they use
There are 4 main types of vehicles on our roads - petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric.
Diesel and petrol vehicles have an internal engine that is powered by fossil fuel. Both types of vehicles release pollutants and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contributes to climate change. Diesel vehicles tend to release a greater level of particulate matter emissions than its petrol counterpart.
Electric vehicles (EV) are vehicles that run on an electric motor. They do not burn fossil fuels and EV car users have the option to power their cars with electricity from sustainable sources (such as wind and solar).
More information on how Solihull is helping drivers make the change to EV driving can be found here.
Hybrid vehicles have a combination of a fossil fuel-powered combustion engine alongside an electric battery and motor. There are different types of hybrid vehicles that work in different ways (eg. ‘Self-charging’ and ‘Plug-in’ hybrids). Generally the internal combustion engine of a hybrid powers the vehicle on long journeys, with a battery and electric motor providing power for shorter urban trips. This model helps minimise pollution in urban areas, where emissions are generally more of a concern. Other types of vehicle that may or may not fall under the heading of ‘hybrid’ have a battery and motor that supplements combustion engine power, but cannot power the vehicle on battery alone.
Cycling and walking
Active travel choices such as walking, and cycling are not only great ways to stay healthy but can also be easily fitted into your normal lifestyle. Just 30 minutes of walking a day can increase your heart and lung fitness, while reducing risk of chronic and cardiovascular disease.
Cycling is also one of the quickest and healthiest forms of active travel. There are many benefits to cycling which aren’t just about reducing carbon emissions. Cycling is faster than public transport, saving you time as you filter through traffic. It’s also a great step towards a healthier lifestyle, building muscle, and improving your heart and lung capacity.
Birmingham Airport
Birmingham Airport has taken on an active role in informing the local community on its air quality responsibilities and findings. Their website provides in-depth information on related monitoring exercises, policies and strategies. It also holds regular meetings with its Airport Consultative Committee (ACC) to discuss a variety of environmental matters.
You can find more information about airport related air quality matters on their website.
Public transport and active and sustainable travel
Active and sustainable travel is an important aspect of improving and maintaining air quality. We have committed to improving our transport efficiency by:
- Introducing new zero emission buses on routes in the borough on a regular basis
- Working to develop a network of cycling and walking routes across the Borough.
Electric vehicles
Accelerating the switch away from fossil fuelled vehicles provides an exciting opportunity to secure improvements in air quality that will benefit the health and economy of Solihull.
Solihull’s Electric Vehicle Strategy is designed to support Solihull’s efforts to decarbonise transport, improve air quality and contribute to green economic growth.
You can find out more about what we’re doing on our electric vehicles page or by reading our electric vehicle strategy.