What’s the difference between ULEZ and LEZ?
Both the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) are initiatives aimed at reducing vehicle emissions in London.
They both look to improve air quality, but the fundamental difference between the two is that ULEZ is stricter than LEZ and targets all vehicles that do not meet specific emission standards by charging them daily. LEZ, on the other hand, focuses on larger, older vehicles like lorries and buses.
Let’s take a closer look at ULEZ and LEZ.
- What’s the Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?
- What’s the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)?
- Key differences between ULEZ & LEZ
- Additional information for driving in London
- Future developments and expansions
- FAQs
What’s the Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?
The LEZ was introduced in London on February 4, 2008. It aims to reduce the emissions from the most polluting heavy diesel vehicles, such as
🚛 Lorries
🚌 Buses
🚍 Coaches
It covers most of Greater London and operates 365 days a year. Vehicles that don’t meet the required Euro emission standards must pay a daily charge to drive within the zone.
The LEZ aims to encourage the use of cleaner vehicles and improve air quality, ultimately reducing the health risks associated with air pollution.
What’s the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)?
The ULEZ is a London-wide initiative introduced to tackle air pollution by enforcing stricter emission standards than the LEZ. Introduced in April 2019, it operates 365 days a year and affects vehicles that fail to meet the Euro 4 (petrol) and Euro 6 (diesel) standards, such as:
🚗 Cars
🏍️ Motorcycles
🚚 Vans
🚘 Other light vehicles
Non-compliant vehicles are subject to a daily charge.
Key differences between ULEZ and LEZ
| Feature | ULEZ | LEZ |
| How it affects | Applies to most vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, vans, and minibuses. | Targets larger, heavier diesel vehicles such as lorries, buses, and coaches. |
| Emission standards | Enforces Euro 4 (petrol) and Euro 6 (diesel) standards. | Requires compliance with older Euro emission standards, mainly Euro IV and Euro V, for heavier vehicles. |
| Area covered | Initially covered Central London. Expanded in October 2021 to include Inner London. | Covers most of Greater London. |
| Charges | £12.50 daily charge for most vehicle types, £100 for heavier vehicles. | Daily charge varies from £100 to £300 depending on the vehicle size and emission standards. |
| Operational times | Operates 24/7, 365 days a year. | Operates 24/7, 365 days a year. |
| Objective | Reduce pollution from a broader range of vehicles and improve air quality for all Londoners. | Focuses on reducing emissions from heavy diesel vehicles to improve air quality. |
Additional information for driving in London
Road users in London should be aware of the Congestion Charge Zone, which operates separately from ULEZ and LEZ. This zone charges most vehicles a fee to drive in Central London between 7:00 am and 10:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Additionally, Londoners can benefit from various exemptions and discounts for:
- Residents
- Disabled drivers
- Vehicles meeting specific emissions standards
It’s crucial to regularly check Transport for London (TFL) updates for any changes to these schemes. Planning routes, checking vehicle compliance, and understanding applicable charges can help avoid penalties and contribute to a smoother driving experience in London.
Future developments and expansions
TFL is continuously working on enhancing the effectiveness of ULEZ and LEZ to improve air quality further. Planned future developments include:
- ULEZ expansion: In August 2023, ULEZ was expanded to cover all London boroughs, ensuring a broader impact on emission reductions.
- Stricter emission standards: Both ULEZ and LEZ standards may become more stringent over time, encouraging drivers to switch to cleaner vehicles.
- Increased awareness campaigns: TFL continues to conduct public awareness campaigns to educate road users about compliance and the benefits of reduced emissions.
- Technological innovations: TFL incorporates advanced technologies for better monitoring and enforcing emission standards.
FAQs
How do I find out if I have to pay LEZ or ULEZ?
Check if your vehicle meets the emission standards for LEZ or ULEZ by using the online compliance checker on the Transport for London (TFL) website. You can also use our free ULEZ checker. You must pay the applicable charge if your vehicle doesn’t meet the standards.
What cars are exempt from LEZ?
Cars that meet the Euro 4 (petrol) or Euro 6 (diesel) emission standards are exempt from LEZ charges. Additionally, electric vehicles and specific hybrid models may be exempt. Check the TfL website for a comprehensive list of exempt vehicle types.
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