Calls for Sadiq Khan to clarify ULEZ rules as 92 percent of drivers are confused

A study conducted by the vehicle sales platform carwow has revealed that more than nine in 10 drivers in the UK are confused about the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London.

The report found that 92 percent were unaware of the consequences of driving a non-compliant vehicle into the zone, which the London Mayor Sadiq Khan plans to expand on August 29, 2023.

Sally Foote, the UK Managing Director for carwow, is calling on the Mayor of London to make rules surrounding the expansion clearer to all motorists.

She said: “With just a month to go until London’s ULEZ expansion, it’s alarming to see that only eight percent of those who could be affected feel confident about their understanding of the increased cost to driving they might incur.

“And what’s more concerning is that even as we creep closer to changes coming into effect, people remain uncertain over what it means for them.”

The report also highlighted that 64 percent of London motorists were unaware of whether their vehicle is compliant within the zone, putting them at risk of facing fines.

In addition, whilst 56 percent of those surveyed believed that the expansion of the ULEZ and other Low Emission Zones would have a positive impact on the environment, 60 percent said they do not think now is the right time to enforce it.

The company predicts that many drivers in the Greater London area will sell older vehicles soon, however 18 percent of drivers surveyed claimed that they do not plan to change their car or the way they drive, despite being at higher risk of fines.

The Ultra Low Emission Zone was first introduced in Central London in 2019 and discouraged owners of older vehicles from driving in by charging motorists £12.50 per day. 

The cars subject to the charge include petrol models that do not meet Euro 4 emission standards, typically made before 2005, and diesel models that do not meet Euro 6 standards, made before 2015.

The zone was expanded to cover all areas between the North and South Circular Roads in October 2021, and latest plans will see it applied to all of Greater London.

Sally is asking motorists who are concerned about the impact of the expansion of ULEZ to check if their car is compliant before it is rolled out.

She explained: “We encourage people to check their vehicle now to avoid unexpected charges from the end of August. For those who find that their vehicle isn’t compliant, it might be better to consider selling up and switching sooner rather than later.

“We’re expecting an influx of non-compliant cars entering the market in London and the South East over the coming weeks, which could impact the prices sellers can get for their vehicles.”