There have been countless changes occurring throughout London over the last year, and another one is fast approaching – the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone. With a large number of locations now being added to the list, including over 3.5 million additional properties, we are sure there will be some questions on your mind, so we are here to answer them.
Q: What is the Ultra Low Emission Zone expansion?
A: The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was first introduced in April 2019, replacing the T-Charge. With the aim to reduce London’s rising pollution levels, the zone has since remained active 7 days a week, 364 days a year, with Christmas Day excluded. However, with pollution rising to pre-pandemic levels, the Mayor of London and TfL have made the decision to expand the zone.
Q: Who will be affected by the expansion?
A: The zone is expanding outwards to reach the North and South Circular. Those looking to travel into this area within a vehicle which doesn’t conform to Euro 6 regulations will be expected to pay the charge. The Department of Transport have predicted that around 9.5 million out of 12.9 million diesel vehicles will be affected.
Q: How much will I be charged for entering the zone?
A: For vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, such as cars, vans and motorcycles, you will be expected to pay a daily charge of £12.50. Larger vehicles such as buses, coaches and lorries will be expected to pay £100. This is in addition to the Congestion Charge.
Q: When does the ULEZ expansion come into action?
A: The ULEZ will expand from October 25th 2021 and operate 364 days a year. Christmas Day will remain excluded. The charge resets at 0:01am, meaning if you enter the ULEZ one evening and leave the next morning, you will be expected to pay twice.
Q: Who will be excluded by the expansion?
A: Emergency services vehicles with the taxation class of ‘Ambulance’ or ‘Fire Engine’ on the date of travel will be exempt. Petrol vehicles which have been registered from 2005 onwards may find themselves exempt. Diesel vehicles registered from 1st September 2015 may also find themselves exempt.
Q: What are the repercussions of an unpaid ULEZ charge?
A: Drivers who fail to pay the ULEZ charge will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £160. If paid within 14 days, this can be reduced to £80.
Q: I’m unsure on my vehicle. Can I check if it is exempt?
A: TfL operate a highly effective online vehicle checker, allowing you to find out if your specific vehicle is exempt from the ULEZ charge, as well as Congestion Charge. Simply enter your number plate to find out.
For further advice on London’s ULEZ expansion, or assistance with your diesel or petrol vehicles, get in touch with our family-run team at RKH Service and Repair. Give us a call on 01233 877797 or email us at admin@rkhserviceandrepair.co.uk.
