Live in London or planning to visit the English capital soon? If you are visiting London, then you will be driving through the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Ensuring you have a vehicle that’s ULEZ compliant is essential for driving around the city.
ULEZ was first introduced in April 2019 in central London, covering the same area as the congestion charge. Over time, the zone has expanded to cover the North and South Circular. More recently on the 29th of August 2023, it now covers all London boroughs.
Learn more in this article about ULEZ and why you should consider upgrading your current vehicle for a new, up-to-date car or van.
What is ULEZ?
London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone covers the entire inner and outer boroughs of the city, right up to the capital’s borders with other counties, such as Buckinghamshire, Kent, Surrey, Essex and Hertfordshire.
Initially, ULEZ replaced the T-Charge, meaning that residents living in London, as well as tourists who drive older cars, vans or lorries will pay to drive within the zone. However, ULEZ runs alongside the Congestion Charge, with some distinct differences between the two. While the Congestion Charge operates from 7am to 10am in a small area of central London, whereas ULEZ runs for nearly the entire year, except for Christmas Day.
How Much is the ULEZ Charge?
Business owners and families who have a non-compliant vehicle will need to pay £12.50 every day if they want to drive in London.
The zone covers both the City of London and all London boroughs. If you drive in the zone with an old petrol or diesel car or van as part of your journey, you will have to pay the daily charge. For a car or van to be ULEZ compliant, they will need to meet certain criteria.
ULEZ-compliant petrol cars or vans must meet Euro 4, Euro 5 or Euro 6 emission standards and be registered after January 2006. Diesel cars and vans on the other hand, must be Euro 6 compliant and be registered after September 2015. This also applies to hybrid vehicles, which is dependent on the type of fuel they use, whether its petrol or diesel. Electric vehicles are exempt from ULEZ as they don’t produce any emissions.
Residents or businesses who have vehicles parked within the zone won’t need to pay if they don’t use their vehicle.
Which Cars are ULEZ Compliant?
Before you decide to upgrade your car, it's worth doing your research to make sure that you have the right vehicle to use as your daily drive.
While electric vehicles are exempt from both the Congestion Charge and ULEZ, the latest petrol, hybrid and diesel cars are also ULEZ-compliant. It’s worth looking at each car or van’s model to make sure that you make an informed decision on upgrading your current vehicle.
If your job requires you to drive into central London regularly, then the Ford e-Transit or Nissan Leaf are worth considering. Both vehicles are fully electric, meaning that you won’t have to pay the Congestion Charge, as well as ULEZ charge.
3 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade to a ULEZ-Compliant Car or Van
At Nationwide Cars, we offer a wide range of ULEZ-compliant cars and vans for businesses and families. Here are a few reasons why you should consider upgrading your current vehicle for a new one.
Better Fuel Economy
Buying a newer vehicle that meets the ULEZ criteria means that you will save money on petrol costs long-term. If you have a business that requires daily travel across London, your new van can transport all your equipment or cargo without compromising on fuel-efficiency.
Avoid Paying for Daily Driving Charges
Upgrading your older vehicle for a ULEZ-compliant van or car means that you’ll avoid having to pay the daily charge. Paying to drive in the zone can come at a significant cost, particularly if you have an older vehicle.
Improved Performance from your Car or Van
When you upgrade your old vehicle for a ULEZ-compliant one, they come equipped with plenty of safety, driving and performance features, as well as in-car entertainment. An automatic parking brake, cruise control, in-car satellite navigation and Apple CarPlay are just a few things that come with your new car or van.
Upgrade Your Vehicle to a ULEZ-Compliant Car or Van with Nationwide Cars
Nationwide Cars offers a wide range of new cars and vans that are ULEZ compliant. Our expert sales team will answer any questions you may have when it comes to upgrading your vehicle for you or your business. You can contact our team today and we’ll make sure you have the right vehicle to drive in low-emission zones in London and across the UK.
Thinking about buying an electric car, but are unsure of how they work? Learn more in our article about how an electric car works.
