A new online CO2 tool, enabling operators to compare the emissions of different vans, has been launched by the BVRLA on its website.

The move follows a year-long campaign by the association, which has been calling on manufacturers to provide the information to prospective buyers.

While van makers have now agreed to publish the data in 2009, the BVRLA has worked in conjunction with consultants at Clifford Thames to produce its own guide.

“We hope this online tool will fill some of the information vacuum faced by UK van buyers,” said Jay Parmar, the BVRLA’s head of legal services.

“Our members tell us that fuel consumption and emissions have rapidly emerged as two of the top criteria when operators come to choose a van.

“However, we would recommend that buyers seek further advice to ensure that they are choosing the best vehicle for their needs.”

The new tool features drop-down menus that enable users to search by manufacturer, model, engine size and vehicle weight and compare the fuel consumption and emissions of different vans.

Because emissions data for LCVs is not publically available in the UK, the information has been sourced from Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority.

The BVRLA hopes it will provide a useful aid for van operators until a comprehensive listing is published by the Vehicle Certification Agency next spring.