London became the first city in the world to implement a special Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) that would charge an entry fee for older vehicles if they do not meet the emission standards. In an attempt to reduce air pollution and protect public health, the ULEZ will be operational for 24 hours and seven days a week.

Motorists who drive into the zone in a vehicle that does not meet the new emission standard (petrol-run vehicles that do not meet Euro 4 standards and diesel-run vehicles that do not meet Euro 6) will have to pay a daily charge. Petrol-run vehicles that do not meet the ULEZ emission standards will have a charge of PS12.50 a day for cars, vans and motorbikes and PS100 a day for lorries, buses and coaches.

Drivers can also check whether their vehicle meets the emission standards of the zone by using an online tool provided by Transport for London. The zone will cover the same area as the existing Congestion Charge, collected from drivers in London city centre when it will be expanded to cover more area between major radial roads known as North and South Circular.

As part of the efforts to combat air pollution, London’s famous red bus fleet is also being upgraded. By October 2020, all of 9,200 vehicles will meet or exceed ULEZ standards.