With increasing concerns over air pollution and its impact on public health, London has taken a bold step by introducing strict vehicle emission regulations. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a central part of this effort — targeting older, more polluting vehicles to reduce harmful emissions and create a healthier environment for everyone.
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What is ULEZ? When did It come into force?
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a clean air initiative launched by Transport for London (TfL) to reduce air pollution and protect public health. It was first introduced in April 2019 in central London and has undergone multiple expansions since.
ULEZ imposes a daily charge on vehicles that don’t meet minimum Euro 4 (petrol) or Euro 6 (diesel) emission standards. This applies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, excluding only Christmas Day.
As of August 2023, the ULEZ expanded to cover all 32 London boroughs, making it one of the largest emissions control zones globally. In 2025, further discussions are underway regarding potential ULEZ integration with other Clean Air Zones (CAZ) or stricter standards, aligning with the UK’s broader net zero goals.
Why was the ULEZ introduced?
Air pollution is a major environmental risk in London, contributing to premature deaths and respiratory diseases. According to the Mayor of London’s Office, toxic air causes around 4,000 deaths per year in the capital.
ULEZ was introduced to:
- Reduce NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide) and PM (Particulate Matter) emissions.
- Encourage a shift to cleaner vehicles.
- Improve quality of life and public health outcomes.
How does the ULEZ work?
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the required emission standards, you must pay a daily charge to drive within the ULEZ:
| Vehicle Type |
Daily ULEZ Charge |
Emission Standard |
| Petrol Cars | £12.50 |
Euro 4 or newer |
| Diesel Cars | £12.50 | Euro 6 or newer |
| Vans, LCVs (under 3.5t) | £12.50 |
Euro 6 (diesel), Euro 4 (petrol) |
| Motorbikes | £12.50 |
Euro 3 or newer |
| HGVs and Buses | £100 | Separate LEZ rules apply |
Payments can be made through TfL’s online portal, auto-pay, or app. Failure to pay results in a £180 fine, reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days.
Which areas are covered by ULEZ in 2025?
The current ULEZ covers:
- Inner and outer London boroughs
- All roads within the North and South Circular Roads
- Includes Croydon, Kingston, Bromley, Barnet, and more
ULEZ boundary signs are clearly marked, and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras enforce compliance.
Which vehicles are exempt from ULEZ?
Some vehicles are automatically exempt or can apply for a temporary exemption:
- Fully electric vehicles (EVs)
- Hybrid vehicles meeting emission standards
- Historic vehicles over 40 years old
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- Taxis registered with TfL
- Residents in temporary grace period zones (certain boroughs)
How to check if your vehicle is ULEZ compliant?
You can check if your vehicle meets ULEZ emissions standards by using the official ULEZ vehicle checker provided by TfL.
Simply enter your vehicle registration number, and the tool will instantly confirm whether your car, van, or bike is compliant.
Browse ULEZ-compliant cars for sale in 2025
If you’re looking to buy a new vehicle, ensuring it’s ULEZ-compliant is essential. Below are the major categories that meet ULEZ standards:
ULEZ-compliant petrol cars
Petrol cars meeting Euro 4 standards (generally registered after 2005) are compliant. Popular models include:
- Ford Fiesta (2006+)
- VW Golf Mk6 (2008+)
- Honda Civic (2006+)
These offer a good balance of low emissions and affordability.
ULEZ-compliant diesel cars
Diesel vehicles must meet Euro 6 standards, usually registered from September 2015 onwards. Recommended models:
- BMW 3 Series (2016+)
- Mercedes A-Class (2016+)
- Vauxhall Astra (2017+)
These cars are suitable for city driving without ULEZ charges.
ULEZ-compliant hybrid vehicles
Most hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) comply with ULEZ standards, especially those sold from 2010 onward. Top picks include:
- Toyota Prius
- Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
- Kia Niro PHEV
ULEZ-compliant electric cars
All fully electric vehicles (EVs) are exempt from ULEZ charges. Leading choices in 2025 include:
- Tesla Model 3
- Nissan Leaf
- MG4 EV
- Renault Zoe
Besides being ULEZ-exempt, these vehicles benefit from zero road tax and lower running costs.
Is my car ULEZ compliant?
To find out, simply:
Visit London ULEZ Checker page. Enter your vehicle registration number.
The tool will confirm whether your vehicle meets the required emissions standards instantly.
What if my vehicle doesn’t comply with ULEZ?
Can I sell a non-compliant vehicle?
Yes, you can still sell a non-compliant car, but:
- Resale value may be lower in London and other cities with ULEZ or CAZ zones.
- You may find more buyers outside London or in ULEZ-free regions.
- Consider offering your car via part exchange at a dealership with ULEZ upgrade offers.
Alternatively, you can explore:
- Scrappage schemes (eligibility may vary)
- Upgrading to a ULEZ-compliant used car via trusted marketplaces
What are the benefits of ULEZ?
According to TfL data:
- NO₂ levels have fallen by 46% since 2019
- 90%+ of vehicles driving daily in London now meet emission standards
Children and vulnerable people are less exposed to harmful air.
ULEZ supports:
- Cleaner transportation
- Healthier communities
- Greater awareness about emission-related vehicle choices
What’s next for ULEZ after 2025?
In line with the UK’s Net Zero Strategy, expect:
- Tighter emissions rules
- Expansion of road-user charging systems
- National roll-out of similar clean air zones
By 2030–2035, nearly all vehicles may need to be fully electric or meet stringent standards to avoid charges.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re buying a car, commuting, or managing a fleet, understanding ULEZ in 2025 is essential. It’s more than avoiding charges — it’s about future-proofing your journey and supporting cleaner air in the UK.
People also ask (Voice-optimized FAQs)
Can I still drive a diesel car in London in 2025?
Yes, you can drive a diesel car in London, but it must meet Euro 6 standards. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay the daily ULEZ charge.
Is it worth buying a ULEZ-compliant car?
Yes. Buying a ULEZ-compliant car helps you avoid daily charges, improves fuel efficiency, and ensures you’re ready for future clean air regulations.
What happens if I don’t pay the ULEZ charge?
If you don’t pay the ULEZ charge, you’ll receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £180, reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days.
Can I sell my non-ULEZ car in the UK?
Yes, you can sell your non-ULEZ-compliant car, especially outside London or in areas without low emission zones. However, the resale value may be lower.
