The new Ultra Low Emission Zone charge (or Toxic charge) was introduced in London on 8 April 2019. All petrol vehicles more than 13 years old (pre 2006) and diesel cars more than 4 years old (pre 2015) are required to pay a £12.50 charge in addition to the £11.50 congestion charge. Older HGVs, coaches and buses will pay £100 to enter the city. The ULEZ zone is in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and only black taxi drivers will be exempt from the charge.
The ULEZ zone will initially cover the same area as the congestion charge in central London. From 2021 this will be expanded to cover the entirety of inner London - defined as all areas bounded by the city’s north and south circular roads.
The Ultra Low Emission Zone charge will have a significant impact on self employed businesses and contractors in London, namely those employed in the building trade and mini cab drivers who will now be required to pay a daily charge of £24 if they travel into central London if they have an old vehicle.
Businesses and consumers in central London will also be impacted as the changes will likely result in higher prices for any goods making their way into London and the increases will continue through the value chain.