What you need to know about London ULEZ

The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) expanded across all London boroughs moving into more residential areas. We want to help you understand how it might impact you as an owner of your vehicle or a member of Zipcar with a few frequently asked questions.

What you need to know about the ULEZ expansion

The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) is expanding across all London boroughs from 29 August 2023, moving into more residential areas likely impacting more and more Londoners. We wanted to help you understand how it might affect you by putting together a few frequently asked questions.

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is an area in London where higher-polluting vehicles must pay a fee to move around. The zone is focused on improving air quality across London and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year, except Christmas Day (25th December).

The ULEZ map matches closely with the Congestion Charge Zone, but as of August 2023, it will expand including the North Circular and South Circular roads. You can see the detailed map here.

Is important to note that the annual fee to register a vehicle for Auto Pay will be removed from 30 January 2023.

Did you know that air pollution is one of the biggest risks to the health of Londoners? In 2017 the London Mayor announced plans for the Ultra Low Emission zone centrally, now stating there have been great improvements in air quality in London since then. To further these improvements, the ULEZ was expanded with the hope of benefitting more London residents. Find out more here.

Vehicles entering the ULEZ must meet Euro standards outlined by TfL based on the type of vehicle and the fuel they use. Euro standards are a range of emission controls that sets limits for air pollution from engines. The ULEZ standards are:

Euro 3 for motorcycles, mopeds, motorised tricycles and quadricycles (L category) (This became mandatory for all new motorcycles in 2007)
Euro 4 (NOx) for petrol cars, vans, minibuses and other specialist vehicles (This became mandatory for all new cars in 2005 and light vans in 2006)
Euro 6 (NOx and PM) for diesel cars, vans and minibuses and other specialist vehicles
Euro VI (NOx and PM) for lorries, buses and coaches and other specialist heavy vehicles (NOx and PM)

Check your vehicle here.

It's worth adding that all Zipcar vehicles are fully ULEZ compliant, ideal for regular business and personal use.

What to do if your car doesn't comply with ULEZ standards?

If your vehicle does not comply with the standards you could face a daily charge if you drive anywhere within the ULEZ. Additionally, the value of ULEZ and Congestion Charge penalty charges incurred will increase from 2024. If you live within the zone, you may need to rethink your car ownership.

Car sharing with Zipcar offers a quick and easy way to get access to a vehicle without the overheads of buying a new car. Insurance, mileage, road tax, fuel, and ULEZ are included within the reservation so you only pay for the time you need.

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