London in the ultra low emission zone

Introduced in April 2019 to combat air pollution in the city centre, the London Ultra Low Emission Zone, or ULEZ, extends today. A direct response to harmful pollution levels in the city, the zone expansion now includes all areas within the North and South Circular Roads, with the exception of the A406 (North Circular Road) and the A205 (South Circular Road) themselves.

Which vehicles will no longer be able to drive in London

All pre-2015 diesel vehicles and pre-2006 petrol vehicles will no longer be allowed in the zone. Vehicles under 3.5 tonnes that do not meet these criteria, will be required to pay £12.5 for each day they drive in the low emission zone. For vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, they will have to pay £100. Every journey in the ULEZ is counted, even short ones. However, parked vehicles are exempt.

Unpaid fees are subject to a fixed fine of £160.

For electric vehicles, access to the ULEZ is free of charge as it is for vehicles complying with the standards in force. Hybrid vehicles are subject to the same standards as petrol vehicles.

Certain vehicle owners in a 'disabled' tax category will be able to apply for reductions or days of grace.

Some vehicles such as tanks, excavators, or agricultural vehicles will be exempted.

Results are in

Half of all nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions come from transport, according to Transport for London. The money generated by ULEZ will be reinvested in improving the transport network, according to TfL.

As TlF says : « Toxic air pollution increases your risk of heart and lung disease, worsens chronic illnesses such as asthma, and puts children's health at risk. It's not just a central London problem. Many areas across the city are exceeding the legal limits for pollution. »

Since its introduction two years ago, ULEZ has reduced nitrogen dioxide emissions by 44%, with over 17,400 polluting vehicles off the road in central London since its introduction. And according to TfL, 80% of vehicles now comply with ULEZ standards, compared with only 39% in 2017.

The City of London has put in place a series of trade-in incentives for older vehicles to enable poorer households to meet the new standards. Grants can range from £1,000 to £2,000 for cars and motorbikes and up to £15,000 for HGVs. However, thousands of motorists have had their applications refused or delayed because of administrative challenges as the extension of ULEZ begins.

If you are not sure whether your vehicle is allowed to drive in this zone, you can call TfL on 0343 222 2222 or visit TfL website with your licence plate number : tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/

ULEZ operates 24/7 every day of the year except Christmas.