A Guide to ULEZ & Car Leasing
The ULEZ or Ultra-Low Emission Zone was first revealed back in 2013 and began in April 2019. The aim is to drastically improve the air quality in London by reducing dirty exhaust fumes in the city centre. If your vehicle doesn't meet standards then you will be charged daily to enter the zone. The ULEZ Zone operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week except for Christmas Day.
Where is the Ultra Low Emissions Zone?
Currently, the ULEZ Zone covers all areas within the North and South Circular Roads. The North Circular (A406) and South Circular (A205) roads are not in the zone.
However, this will change on the 29th of August 2023 as the ULEZ is expanding to all London Boroughs. This will mean that most areas within the M25 will be subject to a £12.50 daily charge.
Please use the link below to search the Government website and its interactive map.
Future Changes to the ULEZ
Currently, a £10 annual fee is charged to register a vehicle for Auto Pay. With the future scheme, this cost is planned to be removed making it easier and cheaper to live near or inside the zone.
Penalty Charges will also be increased from £160 to £180 (reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days) if you are to be caught driving in the ULEZ without paying.
Other future changes include discounts, exemptions and modifications to the scrappage scheme. For more information please visit ULEX Expansion 2023.
How Much Does the ULEZ Cost?
Whether you are driving one mile or across the entire ULEZ zone and your vehicle doesn't meet the ULEZ emissions standards, you will need to pay the £12.50 daily charge. This also includes all residents of the ULEZ.
If you were to drive into the ULEZ every day of the year in a non-compliant car the charge for that year would total £4,562.50.
If your vehicle doesn't move and stays parked within the Zone then you do not need to pay the ULEZ charge.