Lorry, bus and coach operators have been urged by Transport for London “to act now” if they’re to avoid paying a daily charge when the London Low Emission Zone commences early next year.
The Zone, which comes into operation from 4 February 2008, aims to reduce traffic pollution and improve the health and quality of life of Londoners by encouraging operators of large diesel vehicles to clean up their fleets.
From 4 February, diesel-engined lorries over 12 tonnes will be required to meet specified emissions standards. Those vehicles that fail to meet this standard face a daily charge.
There will be a phased launch of the Low Emission Zone:
Heavier lorries
From 4 February 2008, diesel-engined lorries over 12 tonnes will need to meet Euro III standards.
This includes heavy diesel-engined vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight, including goods vehicles, motor caravans, motorised horseboxes and other specialist vehicles.
Buses, coaches and lighter lorries
From July 2008, Euro III standards will also apply to heavy diesel engined vehicles between 3.5 and 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight, including goods vehicles, motor caravans, motorised horseboxes and other specialist vehicles.
This will also apply to buses and coaches: diesel-engined passenger vehicles with more than eight seats, plus the driver’s seat, exceeding 5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.
Large vans
From October 2010, Euro III standards will also apply to diesel-engined vehicles between 1.205 tonnes unladen and 3.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight and motor caravans and ambulances between 2.5 tonnes and 3.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.
Also minibuses: diesel-engined passenger vehicles with more than eight seats, plus the driver’s seat, below 5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.
Euro IV
From January 2012, all diesel-engined lorries, buses and coaches will be required to meet a baseline standard of Euro IV in order to drive within the Low Emission Zone at no charge.
