Transport for London (TfL) has announced that the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is expanding to cover all London boroughs on 29 August 2023.
The change is being made with the aim of reducing air pollution across London. The TfL says that polluting vehicles are the main cause of poor air quality, and that the current ULEZ has resulted in an estimated 20% lower concentration of Nitrogen Dioxide in the air than if the zone had not been established.
The TfL is now looking to expand the ULEZ to replicate this result across London.
The map below shows the current ULEZ and the new London-wide ULEZ that will replace it at the end of August 2023.
Driving a vehicle inside the ULEZ that doesn’t meet the emissions standards will result in a charge of £12.50. This does include residents living within the ULEZ boundary, but only if they are driving. If you are parked inside the zone and do not drive that day, you do not need to pay the charge.
In tandem with this, the Mayor of London has announced a scrappage scheme to trade in old and non-conforming vehicles for grant payments and, if opted for, annual bus and tram passes. Sole traders and small businesses (10 or fewer employees) will also be eligible for a separate van scrappage scheme, which will be announced shortly.
Support will also be offered for all Londoners, even if they don’t qualify for the grant.
If you regularly drive in London, and are worried about the upcoming charges, there is still plenty of time to prepare. Switching to an electric van might be an option, and if not, you should investigate the grants and support available to you.
Buying a new van might be outside of your budget, but a new electric van lease could be the right financial solution. With new electric charge points being installed every week, charging shouldn’t be a problem within London.
If you need more information on electric vans, please give us a call.
