France are to ban all cars registered before 1997 from July 1st, under new rules aimed at curbing smog and traffic problems in Paris. Old cars are to be banned from Paris during weekdays, and all motorcycles registered before 1999 are to be barred from the roads too. Theverge.com reports: The ban was announced last year as part of an anti-pollution measure that will become progressively stricter in coming years. By 2020, the ban will extend to cover cars that were registered prior to 2010. Those who violate the rule can face a fine of up to €35 ($39), or €78 as of January 1st, 2017. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has implemented several measures aimed at reducing smog across the French capital, including a recent move to ban cars from the Champs-Élysées on the first Sunday of every month. The Socialist mayor has also moved to create more pedestrian zones at major traffic circles and along the Seine river. Last year, the city held its first-ever “day without cars,” which will be expanded to cover more neighborhoods this year. The ban on 19-year-old cars will affect around 10 percent of all vehicles in Paris. French business daily Les Echos reported on Tuesday that Environment Minister [...]