Increasing evidence has shown that air pollution can cause serious health problems and one of the most significant factors towards air pollution is road traffic. In London in particular this has become a growing problem. Due to this there has been major changes over the last few years to combat the effects of air pollution.
In 2019 the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was brought in, meaning if your vehicle does not meet the ULEZ emissions standards and isn’t exempt, you will need to pay a £12.50 daily charge to drive within the zone. This applies to cars, motorcycles, vans and specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes) and minibuses (up to and including 5 tonnes). More details on the TFL website.
Due to the positive effects of this scheme, on 29 August 2023, the ULEZ zone will be expanding across all London boroughs to bring clean air to 5 million more people.
Where is ULEZ expanding to?
These 32 boroughs include the local areas of Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Sutton, Merton, Kingston Upon Thames, Richmond Upon Thames and Hounslow.
Is my car ULEZ-compliant?
Anyone driving into London boroughs will now need to plan ahead to make sure their car meets the requirements.
To be ULEZ-compliant, your car must emit a low level of exhaust pollutants and must meet the following emission standards:
- Petrol cars (including petrol-hybrid) – Euro 4 or higher
- Diesel cars (including diesel-hybrid) – Euro 6 or higher
You can check whether your vehicle meets the required standards using the TFL website 'Check Your Vehicle' page.
Scrappage Scheme Grant Extended
From 21 August 2023 the Mayor of London is expanding the eligibility of the scrappage scheme. All residents living in the 32 London boroughs or the City of London with an eligible vehicle are able to apply for a grant to scrap a car or motorcycle. You can get up to £2,000 for scrapping a car or up to £1,000 for scrapping a motorcycle.
Next Steps
As the ULEZ expansion date draws closer, more people are having to upgrade their cars to more environmentally friendly models. It is important to make it clear that this does not have to be a brand-new vehicle, ULEZ compliant vehicles can range from petrol, electric, new and used cars, so you are not short of options!
Here at Ancaster we have a wide range of used & new petrol and electric vehicles. So whether you need to upgrade due to the ULEZ expansion or it is just time for a new set of wheels, you are sure to find your next car at Ancaster.
Browse our stock below and enquire for a personalised finance quote.
