ULEZ confirmed
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has confirmed the introduction of the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). It will launch in central London on 7 September 2020. It is intended to significantly improving air quality and help to protect the health of Londoners. It will require vehicles travelling in the Congestion Charge Zone of central London to meet new emission standards 24 hours a day, seven days a week or pay a daily charge. The full ULEZ package is expected to halve emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM10) from vehicle exhausts in central London.
The ULEZ will require minibuses to meet Euro6 for diesel engines (registered from 1 September 2016 so four years old or less in 2020) and Euro4 for petrol engines (registered from 1 January 2007 so 13 years old or less in 2020). Non-compliant vehicles will be required to pay a daily charge of £12.50. Buses and coaches will have to meet Euro6 (registered from 1 January 2014 so six years old or less in 2020 except TfL buses which are required to meet a higher standard). Non-compliant vehicles will be required to pay a daily charge of £100.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said, ‘The world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone is an essential measure to help improve air quality in our city, protect the health of Londoners, and lengthen our lead as the greatest city on earth. With additional funds announced today, more help is on the way for taxi drivers to support their transition to the latest technology in greener cabs. Together we can ensure everyone who lives, works in, or visits our city has the cleanest possible air to breathe.’
SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, said, ‘The London ULEZ will play a key role in driving the market for ultra low emission vehicles in Europe’s leading mega city, and set a precedent not only in the UK but around the world. SMMT supports this vision and wants to see London meet its air quality and climate change targets, while driving innovation and supporting jobs. We are pleased to see the Mayor has recognised that the latest diesel technology has a place in an Ultra Low Emissions Zone. It is only by encouraging motorists to invest in the latest, lowest emission technology, regardless of vehicle or fuel type, that the Mayor’s vision be fully realised.’
Freight Transport Association’s Head of Policy London, Natalie Chapman, said, ‘FTA want to see some help for those who will find it harder to comply as the second hand market for Euro6 vehicles will not have fully matured by then, and unlike previous phases of the London Low Emission Zone, there will be no retrofit option available.’