Last year, we brought you news that the ULEZ (Ultra-Low Emission Zone) in London is due to be expanded on 25th October 2021. You may already be aware of the existing ULEZ zone, an area that occupies central London. But this will soon encompass a far greater area, stretching as far as the north and south circular roads. It is important to be aware of the changes if you drive a commercial vehicle – which is the entirety of our customers at GRV 4 Fridge Vans.
A quick recap: what is the ULEZ Zone?
The ULEZ zone is a London initiative developed to promote better air quality in the capital. The scheme encourages people to drive low-emission vehicles. It has been successful in lowering toxic fumes in central London, helping to improve the health and wellbeing of residents and workers alike.
ULEZ has resulted in a 44% reduction of nitrogen dioxide by the roadside and boosted the numbers of eco-friendly vehicles by approximately 80%! The ULEZ zone operates all day, every day (except Christmas Day). Cars, vans, and other vehicles that fail to meet the criteria must pay a fee to access the zone.
Expansion of the zone
Make a date in your diary. On 25th October 2021, the ULEZ area will expand to the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205). Please be aware that the north and south circular roads are not included within the ULEZ zone. This radical step is intended to further enhance the air quality across wider areas of the city. If you fail to drive a vehicle that qualifies, you will incur a £12.50 daily charge.
Ensure your vehicle qualifies:
ULEZ will impact cars, vans, motorcycles, and a number of other vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, and minibuses, up to 5 tonnes in weight.
To avoid a fine, be sure to check that your refrigerated vehicle meets the criteria below. It is worth noting that 4 in 5 cars already meet the standards required.
- Euro 3 (NOx) — The minimum standard for motorcycles, tricycles with an engine, mopeds, and motorised quadricycles.
- Euro 4 (NOx) — Applies to petrol cars and vans (including refrigerated vans), plus a range of specialist petrol vehicles and minibuses.
- Euro 6 (NOx and PM) — The highest standard required for diesel cars, vans, and other diesel vehicles, such as minibuses.
Summary
While the ULEZ zone may be problematic if your refrigerated vehicle fails to qualify for the air pollution standards, the scheme encourages low-emission driving and has been proven to reduce roadside emissions.
Be sure to make a note of the expansion date: 25th October 2021. From then on, the zone will expand to the north and south circular roads, encompassing a huge area of London. It is hoped this will further improve the wellbeing of residents.
Contact GRV4 FridgeVans
Please feel free to get in touch with our up-to-date specialists if you have any questions regarding the ULEZ expansion. If your existing refrigerated van does not meet the criteria, at GRV 4 Fridge Vans, we have a wide range of low-emission vehicles and affordable finance options available.
