Mercedes-Benz Vans research suggests that businesses and drivers most likely to be impacted by CAZ remain “in the dark” about the upcoming plans.

This summer the Government announced that, as part of its Clean Air Strategy, that the first five Clean Air Zones (CAZs) will be in place by the end of 2019 in Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Derby and Southampton.

The pledge is leaving key road-users confused and concerned about what they mean and how they will work, according to the Mercedes-Benz Vans Business Barometer.

In fact, one in five van drivers, owners and operators have not heard about the proposed Clean Air Zones while 41% say they fear they could have a negative impact on their business.

The Mercedes-Benz Vans Business Barometer data shows that 78% of van drivers, owners and operators want more clarity on what the charging and emissions criteria of these proposed CAZs will be.

Meanwhile just 6% of all van drivers, owners and operators were aware that Derby is one of the proposed five cities where roll-out will begin pre-2020, and just 7% could name Southampton as another of the first cities to have a Clean Air Zone.

Mercedes-Benz Vans UK’s managing director Steve Bridge said: “It speaks volumes that business owners and van operators don’t see clearly when it comes to Clean Air; the communication about this topic simply hasn’t reached this important section of industry.

“Clean Air Zones undoubtedly have a positive impact on the environment and our health, but equally, business owners need to know the impact these Zones will have on them too – forewarned is forearmed so they can prepare accordingly.

"To not have clear plans in place that are communicated effectively is doing a disservice to the hardworking business community.”

The Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Business Barometer is an independent sample of 2,000 van drivers, owners, operators and fleet managers – including tradespeople and service engineers to delivery drivers and entrepreneurs – who share their views about their business growth expectations, career goals, challenges and barriers to growth that they face.