London ULEZ Expansion from 25 October 2021
London’s mission to reduce air pollution in the city continues with the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) this month. The London ULEZ which was introduced in April 2019 currently only covers Central London, the same area as the Congestion Charge zone. From 25 October 2021 the ULEZ will be extended up to the North Circular and South Circular roads, covering an area about 18 times larger than before.
Where is the new London Ultra Low Emission Zone?
The map above outlines the current smaller zone (orange) and the new larger London ULEZ (yellow). You can still drive on the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205) without having to pay a fee unless you drive over the boundary and into the ULEZ area. If you drive a heavy diesel vehicle then you could also be liable to pay the LEZ (Low Emission Zone) charge when driving in Greater London (within the M25) which includes the Circular Roads.
How will the ULEZ expansion affect drivers in London?
Drivers of older high polluting vehicles must pay a daily charge every time they drive inside the ULEZ. Most new cars already meet the lower emission standards, Euro 4 for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel. If you’re unsure that your car or van is compatible then you can easily check your vehicle online. Just go to the Transport for London website, put the registration number in the vehicle checker and it will tell you straight away which charges are applicable.
In some cases the emission and engine details for your vehicle registration can turn out to be incorrect on the database. For example, if your car has a private number plate it could still be showing as a vehicle that doesn’t comply with the standards and you’d have to pay the ULEZ charge to avoid a hefty fine. Therefore it is worth double checking that your vehicle is exempt before driving in London. Information on how to update your vehicle details can be found on the TfL (Transport for London) website.
How much is the London ULEZ charge?
If your vehicle doesn’t comply with the ULEZ emission standards you must pay a daily fee of £12.50 for cars, small vans and motorbikes, or £100 for larger vehicles. Charges are applicable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round (except on Christmas Day). You only have to pay for the days that you drive within the zone, so if your car is left parked it won’t be subject to the ULEZ charges on those days.
How can I pay the ULEZ fee?
Payment can be made online in advance, on the day and up until midnight on the third charging day after your journey. Failure to pay the charge on time can result in a fine (penalty charge notice).
LEZ and Congestion Charge zones
Now, let’s not forget about the other London charging zones. If you are planning to drive to London you could also be liable to pay the LEZ (Low Emission Zone) and/or the Congestion Charge on top of the ULEZ fee.
The LEZ charge applies to drivers of the most polluting heavy diesel vehicles inside the ‘Low Emission Zone’ within the M25 in Greater London. This charging zone is in operation 24 hours per day, every day of the year, except on Christmas Day. And if you drive in Central London inside the Congestion Charge zone then this charge is payable on top of the ULEZ and/or LEZ.
Charging times for the Congestion Charge zone is between 07:00-22:00 every day of the week including bank holidays, except for one day of the year (25 December). There are some exemptions for certain types of vehicles, blue badge holders and residents, but you must submit an application to the Transport for London before you receive a discount. Hybrid vehicles will no longer be eligible for the ‘cleaner vehicle discount’ from 25 October 2021. Only battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will qualify from this date.
Are you thinking of getting a cleaner vehicle?
Do you want to replace your old car or van with a new cleaner vehicle? Here at UK Carline we have access to a wide range of cars and commercial vehicles. Contact us today or check our website for all the latest leasing offers including electric and hybrid.
« « Do You Think You Could Still Pass Your Driving Theory Test? | UKC – We review what we sell! » »
