What Is ULEZ Compliant And Why Does It Matter?

ULEZ compliance is a critical consideration for any business or individual operating in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone. This regulatory framework aims to curb air pollution by enforcing stringent emission standards for vehicles entering the zone.

In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of ULEZ compliance, its implications for van hire, and why it is essential for businesses and individuals alike to ensure their vehicles meet these standards.

At CVS Van Hire, we boast a 100% ULEZ-compliant fleet of vans that are of high quality and well-maintained. Speak to us to learn about ULEZ requirements and our ULEZ-compliant vans. Call 020 8131 6755 or email info@cvsvanhire.co.uk today.

What Is ULEZ Compliant?

ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) is a regulatory framework implemented in London to reduce air pollution. Vehicles that meet certain emission standards are classified as ULEZ-compliant and are allowed to enter the zone without incurring additional charges.

ULEZ compliance is determined by the Euro emission standards, with the latest being Euro 6 for diesel vehicles and Euro 4 for petrol vehicles. It’s important to note that compliance is not determined by the age of the vehicle but rather by its emission levels.

Why Being ULEZ-Compliant Matters

Being ULEZ-compliant is essential for driving a vehicle in London. If van hire is on your mind, know that it affects the cost of renting a van. Non-compliant vehicles are subject to a daily charge when entering the ULEZ area, which can significantly increase the overall rental cost.

Moreover, ULEZ compliance is increasingly becoming a requirement for various contracts and tenders, making it essential for businesses looking to operate within London.

Read this blog to learn about how ULEZ impacts vans and minibuses in London.

What Is The ULEZ Charge In London?

The ULEZ charge in London is currently £12.50 for most vehicles, including vans. This charge is in addition to the congestion charge, making it essential for van hire companies and individuals to consider ULEZ compliance.

Does The ULEZ Charge Apply Every Day?

Yes, the ULEZ charge applies every day of the week, 24 hours a day, including weekends and bank holidays (except for 25^th December), within the defined ULEZ area in London.

This means that if your vehicle is not ULEZ-compliant and you drive within the ULEZ zone during these times, you will incur a daily charge. It’s important to note that the ULEZ charge is in addition to the existing Congestion Charge and Low Emission Zone (LEZ) charges, if applicable.

The Difference Between ULEZ And LEZ

The distinction between ULEZ and LEZ (Low Emission Zone) encompasses not just geographical coverage but also emission standards and the stringency of regulations.

Firstly, while ULEZ targets central London, LEZ is applicable to a larger area in Greater London, covering all of London from the North Circular (A406) to the South Circular (A205) and everything in between. This means that compliance with ULEZ is necessary if you are travelling within the central zone, while LEZ compliance is required for a more expansive region.

Secondly, the emission standards for vehicles under ULEZ are more stringent than those for LEZ. ULEZ requires vehicles to meet Euro 6 standards for diesel engines and Euro 4 for petrol engines, whereas LEZ adheres to slightly older Euro standards. This means vehicles that are compliant with ULEZ standards may not necessarily meet the LEZ requirements, depending on their emissions rating.

Overall, while ULEZ and LEZ share the common goal of reducing air pollution, they differ in terms of the areas they cover and the stringency of their emission standards. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of both zones and their specific requirements when considering vehicle hire or operation in London.

What Is The London ULEZ Area?

The London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) area spans a significant portion of Central London, covering an area of approximately 8.1 square miles (21 square kilometres). It stretches from the A406 (North Circular) in the north to the A205 (South Circular) in the south and includes iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the City of London.

To the west, the ULEZ zone extends to Earl’s Court and Kensington Olympia, while to the east, it reaches the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. Notable neighbourhoods within the ULEZ zone include Westminster, Camden, Lambeth, Southwark, Tower Hamlets, and parts of Hackney and Islington.

The boundaries of the ULEZ area have been carefully defined to include major arterial roads and key travel routes, ensuring that vehicles entering or travelling within this zone are subject to the ULEZ regulations.

It’s important to note that the ULEZ area is different from the Congestion Charge zone, although there is some overlap in the central area.

What Happens If Your Hired Van Is Not ULEZ-Compliant?

If you hire a van that is not ULEZ-compliant, you will be subject to the daily ULEZ charge of £12.50 when entering the zone. This charge can significantly increase the overall cost of your rental, making it important to ensure that the van you hire meets ULEZ standards.

For ULEZ-compliant vans of various sizes and types perfect for all your needs, contact CVS Van Hire. From small vans to medium and large vans to Luton vans and more, we have plenty of options to ensure you are never disappointed. Rest assured – all our vans are compliant with London’s ULEZ requirements. Click here to book a van today.

Conclusion

ULEZ compliance is a crucial consideration whether you’re renting a van in London or driving your own vehicle. It directly impacts the cost of travel, as non-compliant vehicles are subject to a daily charge when entering the ULEZ area.

To avoid additional charges and ensure compliance, it’s important to rent a ULEZ-compliant van. CVS Van Hire is here to take the worries from you. Speak to us to learn about your options for van hire and travel with complete peace of mind.