ULEZ Car Hire: What you need to know
The fairly recent implementations of Low Emission Zones across the UK have been an exceptional source of general confusion, even more so in regard to ULEZ car hire. There is an endless stream of questions that come regarding these zones. Is ULEZ only in London? Are electric vehicles exempt from ULEZ? Even something that should be simple like; what is ULEZ? With this guide, you’ll learn all you need to know about the various Emission Zones across the UK, particularly if you’re looking for a car hire in London.
What is a ULEZ?
ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) is a government scheme in which a zone operating across all of London’s boroughs enforces a tax on vehicles driving within this area that are not compliant with their guidelines. Cameras dotted throughout the zone read the license plate of every vehicle and if a vehicle is not exempt, a £12.50 cost will be applied. If you are new to London, you may not be aware of if you even accidentally have driven within the zone. However, there are plenty of signs on the roads leading into the zone, as long as you keep an eye out you’re sure to know if you’re in the area. It is worth noting that since August 2023, the ULEZ zone has expanded to cover even Heathrow Airport. If you are getting a car hire in Heathrow Airport it will be considered in the ULEZ area.
Benefits of ULEZ Car Hire
For residents of London, living in such a large city naturally means there is going to be constant air pollution. Even outside of what is caused by cars, London has some of the worst air quality in the south of England. It is reported that since its implementation the ULEZ has reduced pollution by half. This has even encouraged more widespread use of vehicles that are environmentally friendly and within the set guidelines.
What do the recent regulations regarding ULEZ expansion mean for drivers?
With how large of an area the ULEZ covers, even if you are only travelling to London for a short while you’re bound to be frequently driving in the area. Though this isn’t as big an issue as you may think if you have a rental. All vehicles are less than 10 years old and follow the criteria to be exempt from the charge. ULEZ car hires do not have to pay the charge. However, if you want to be particularly mindful of the environment you can read up all about electric vehicles and even get an electric car hire.
[link to electric car hire blog]
Is London the only ULEZ?
Whilst London is the only designated ULEZ zone, there are other similar LEZ (Low Emission Zones) and CAZ (Clean Air Zones). Although the exact rules and restrictions vary, the sentiment of taxing non-compliant vehicles remains the same. Southampton, Edinburgh and Bath are some of the other areas with designated zones for low-polluting vehicles.
[Link to other clean air zones blog]
What is the Congestion Charge?
Similarly based in London, the Congestion Charge is a much smaller zone in the heart of London, more or less from Kings Cross to Vauxhall. Although it is a comparatively small size in regards to the ULEZ, it still covers the iconic landmarks of the city like Big Ben – plenty of tourists will want to drive to these sights. If you do drive in this area, the charge will be £15 if paid in advance or on the same day and £17.50 after. Failure to pay either the congestion charge or ULEZ fine may result in additional fees on top of your car rental.
How can I get a ULEZ car hire?
Don’t let the ULEZ zone stop you from making the most of a London trip. There is so much to see and do that you’d be mistaken in passing up the chance to drive in such a city.
And for any other rental needs:
Of course, though there may be some questions and concerns regarding what is possible and when – feel free to contact us by sending us an email at [email protected] and call us at +44 (0)113 880 074 or hear from our other satisfied customers.
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