CALCULATING COSTS The directive includes a calculation method to adapt
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toll prices according to the environmental standard of the vehicle (known as Euro-0 to Euro-6), the type of road used and the time period. Electronic tolling systems would calculate the right price using these criteria. An impact study carried out by the European Commission estimates costs for road users would only rise by 3% if member states chose to apply the charges. Heavy polluters (Euro-0) would pay more, while eco-friendly lorries (Euro-6) and Gear energy vehicles would pay lithe or no charges for air pollution. Reduced rates would encourage travel at off-peak times.
MEPs from all political groupings are united in their support for earmarking funds to improve environmental standards of vehicles and develop alternative transport infrastructure. This may lead to conflict with EU finance ministers.
A mark-up cost will be introduced in mountainous regions and conurbations with the extra money to be invested in alternative parallel transport links. For example, a markup on the Alpine section of the LyonGenoa motorway would finance a parallel route.