New ‘Zero Emissions Zone’ to charge all petrol and diesel cars set to launch next month

Oxford’s Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) will be the first of its kind in the UK and will go further than the Clean Air Zones (CAZ) seen across the UK in recent months. All petrol and diesel vehicles, including hybrids, will incur a daily charge unless eligible for a discount or exemption.

Every zero emission vehicle, including electric vehicles, can enter the pilot area of the ZEZ for free.

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras are being installed to enforce rules within the zone.

Ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV) – those which emit less than 75 grams of CO2 per kilometre – will be charged £2 per day from February 28.

Low emission vehicles (LEV) are defined as those which meet the Euro 4 petrol or Euro 6 diesel standard and will pay £4 to drive into the zone.

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Energy Superhub Oxford is the world’s largest hybrid battery, which caters for the UK’s most powerful EV charging hub.

Councillor Duncan Enright, Oxfordshire County Council’s Member for Travel and Development Strategy, also praised the introduction of the ZEZ, saying: “This is a proud moment for our city.

“The first ZEZ scheme in the country is launching in Oxford. We are taking concrete actions to improve air quality in the city and to make it cleaner and safer.

“I want to thank all the residents and businesses who sent us their feedback on the pilot and worked with us to develop the scheme.

“Our vision is to create a zero-carbon transport network by 2040 and the ZEZ pilot is an important step towards achieving that vision.

“We will learn from the pilot and in the coming months we will consult with local communities as we develop plans to expand the ZEZ across the city centre.

“We hope that residents, businesses and visitors will join us in our journey towards a carbon neutral future.”