Gov’t calls for quick action to replace old diesel cars

The Environmental Protection Bureau (DSPA) has recently called on diesel car owners seeking new subsidized vehicles to apply quickly.

The government has launched the subsidy scheme for the replacement of old diesel vehicles. The scheme began on September 15 and applications will be accepted until March 15, 2023. As of yesterday, 47 applications have been received, of which 36 have been approved, the DSPA disclosed.

The DSPA reiterated that the scheme was launched to encourage owners of old diesel vehicles to replace their old vehicles, which are perceived as having greater risks of environmental pollution.

Eligible vehicles are those that were first registered on or before December 31, 2002. Their registrations must have been valid since then in order to be eligible. The DSPA added that existing old diesel vehicles that are re-registered on or after September 13, 2022 will not be eligible for the scheme.

A subsidy ranging between MOP25,000 and MOP115,000 will be issued to each qualified old diesel vehicle, depending on the vehicle type and specification.

Qualified car owners can apply to the “Environmental Protection and Energy Conservation Fund.” Upon approval of the subsidy, the applicant must dispose of their used vehicles within 180 days and cancel the registration of their vehicles. Car owners are not required to buy a new car due to vehicle growth control measures. AL