London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has now been extended to encompass all 32 London boroughs, alongside the City of London. This significant expansion, which came into effect recently, means that drivers of vehicles not meeting specific emission standards are now subject to a daily charge when travelling within the entirety of Greater London.
The daily charge for non-compliant vehicles is set at £12.50. This fee applies every day of the year, excluding Christmas Day, and runs from midnight to midnight. Failure to pay the charge can result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £180, reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days. The primary objective of the ULEZ expansion, as stated by Transport for London (TfL), is to address air pollution across the capital, particularly in outer London boroughs which previously did not fall within the zone.
Drivers can determine if their vehicle is compliant by using the official TfL online vehicle checker. Generally, petrol cars registered after 2005 and diesel cars registered after September 2015 are likely to meet the ULEZ standards. However, it is always advisable to verify specific vehicle details, as exact compliance can vary. The RAC has highlighted the importance of this tool for all drivers who may travel into or within Greater London.
A range of exemptions and discounts are in place to mitigate the impact on certain groups. These include a grace period for specific disabled drivers, vehicles used by London-registered charities, and some specialised vehicles. Details on these exemptions and how to apply for them are available on the TfL website. The Mayor of London's office has also introduced a scrappage scheme to assist eligible Londoners and small businesses in replacing older, more polluting vehicles.
The expansion has been a subject of considerable debate, with proponents emphasising the public health benefits of cleaner air and critics raising concerns about the financial burden on residents and businesses, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis. Despite the controversy, the ULEZ now operates across the whole of Greater London, making it crucial for all drivers to understand its implications.
The ULEZ operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year except 25 December. Cameras across the zone automatically detect vehicles, and drivers are responsible for paying the charge by midnight on the third day following their journey. Regular travellers within the zone may consider setting up an auto-pay account with TfL to avoid missing payments.
Source: RAC