From 25 October 2021, the existing central London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will expand to create a single larger zone up to, but not including, the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205). This is a big expansion of the current zone and if you’re vehicle is not compliant and you need to drive in this area, you will face a £12.50 daily charge. Leasing a brand new car is an excellent way of avoiding these charges, and of course doing your bit for the environment.
Why the ULEZ is expanding
Air pollution in London remains the biggest environmental risk to the health of all Londoners and with many areas across the city still exceeding the legal limits for pollution, levels are now returning to pre-pandemic levels across the capital.
Traffic emissions are the biggest source of poor air quality. The world's first 24 hour Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was implemented in central London in April 2019, and has seen the number of vehicles meeting the tough emission standards rise from 39% in February 2017 to more than 80%. It has also had a transformational impact on air pollution, contributing to a 44% reduction in roadside nitrogen dioxide within its boundaries. Any money received from the ULEZ will be reinvested into improving the transport network - including its cycleways, buses and Tube - and helping to improve London's air quality. We don't make a profit and are committed to reducing our costs.
Is my car compliant?
Four out of five cars (almost every car registered after January 2006) already meet the ULEZ emissions standards, you can click the link below to check if your vehicle is compliant.
https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/
If your vehicle does not meet the standards the daily charge is £12.50. The ULEZ operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year except Christmas Day (25 December). If you drive an older car that is not compliant leasing is a great way to get behind the wheel of a brand new car – read about the benefits of leasing here.
https://www.ovl.co.uk/faq
The ULEZ emissions standards are:
- Euro 3 (NOx) for motorcycles, mopeds, motorised tricycles and quadricycles
- Euro 4 (NOx) for petrol cars, vans and other specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) and minibuses (up to and including 5 tonnes)
- Euro 6 (NOx and PM) for diesel cars, vans and other specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes) and minibuses (up to and including 5 tonnes)
You can check if your vehicle is compliant here. Most compliant vehicles don’t need to register because the ULEZ system will recognise your car does meet the criteria set out, but if you are unsure you can register your vehicle here.
Our team our on hand to answer further questions you might have about ensuring your vehicle is ULEZ compliant – please don’t hesitate to get in touch.