Posted on 09 January 2019 by CarTakeBack

In a bid to reduce pollution in London, an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is being introduced in the centre of the city this year. From the 8th April 2019, most vehicles will need to meet new exhaust emission standards, known as the ULEZ Standards, or pay a daily charge to travel within the ULEZ.

The zone will be the same area as the Congestion Charge currently applies, but will increase in size from the 25th October 2021 to include all areas in London inside the North and South Circular roads.

Image credit: TFL

Which cars will be affected by the Ultra Low Emission Zone?

Diesels and older petrol vehicles are being targeted. Just because your vehicle currently meets the Low Emission Zone Standards, it may not meet these new ones. You can check if you'll need to pay to drive in the ULEZ on the TFL website, just enter your vehicle's registration.

How much will it cost to drive in London's ULEZ?

The daily charge for entering the ULEZ if your vehicle doesn't meet the required standards has two tiers, one for small vehicles of £12.50 per day, and one for large vehicles of £100 per day.

The ULEZ charge for small vehicles

The £12.50 per day charge will apply to vehicles such as motorbikes and mopeds, cars, vans up to 3.5 tonnes, minibuses up to 5 tonnes, and motorcaravans between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes. Failure to pay can result in a fine of £160.

The ULEZ charge for large vehicles

The £100 per day charge will apply to vehicles such as lorries, motorised horse boxes over 3.5 tonnes in weight, break down recovery vehicles, buses over 5 tonnes, and concrete mixers. Failure to pay can result in a fine of £1000.

Other charges

If you are currently required to pay the Congestion Charge or the Low Emissions Zone Charge, you will still have to pay these as well when entering these zones.

To find out more about the new Ultra Low Emissions Zone in London, visit the TfL website >