Ultra Low Emission Zone: ULEZ IS COMING - Are you prepared?

Written by Jessica Fidoe on 06th February 2019

Ultra low emission zone london

Air quality is something of a hot topic these days. To help improve the quality of the air, an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will be coming into effect in central London from the 8th April 2019! But what does that mean for drivers? 

 

Air pollution is one of the most significant challenges facing London right now, with transport being the biggest source of the emissions that are polluting the air. 

The ULEZ will help reduce exhaust and PM emissions, with the aim of making London a safer and more pleasant place to live, work and visit. 

To do this, it means that most vehicles including cars and vans will need to meet new tighter exhaust emission standards or face paying a daily charge to travel within the area of the ULEZ, on-top of Congestion charges. 

What vehicles are affected? 

  • Cars, both petrol and diesel
  • Vans, minibuses and lighter specialist vehicles 
  • Motorcycles, mopeds 
  • Lorries, Coaches and other large vehicles 

 

How do I know if my vehicle meets the ULEZ standards? 

For cars, petrol vehicles are generally those registered with the DVLA after 2005, although cars that meet the standards have been available since 2001. Diesel cars that meet the standards are generally those registered with the DVLA after September 2015. 

For vans and minibuses, including 4x4, pickups, ambulances and motor caravans, all new diesel vans sold from September 2016 should meet the Euro 6 standard. Petrol vans registered with the DVLA from January 2006 should also meet the Euro 4 Standard. 

 

What is the charge? 

The majority of vehicles who do not meet the ULEZ standards and choose to drive into this zone will face daily charges of £12.50 a day, with a penalty charge of £160 if this charge is not paid. 

Lorries, coaches and larger vehicles will face a daily charge of £110 per day with a penalty fee of £1,000 if the charge is not paid. 

 

Benefits of the ULEZ zone

By helping the air pollution in London, it means that children, older people, those living in high pollution areas and those with respiratory problems will lead a much healthier life!

For the vehicles that meet the exhaust emission standards, that are travelling from outside of London, those vehicles will give benefits not only across London but to areas outside of the zone too. 

From October 25th 2021, the ULEZ area will be expanded to include the inner London area bounded by the North and South Circular Roads. 

VMS Vehicle Hire understands the support businesses and drivers will need in order to avoid these charges and we are always here to help and provide vehicles to get you into London safely. 

Do you have questions and want to know more? Our friendly reservations team are here to answer your questions around this and to make sure you have the right vehicle for the job! 

 

Call us or head to our contact page today! 

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