How to Register Your Car as ULEZ-Compliant
The London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has expanded, requiring drivers of some older petrol and diesel cars to pay for travel through the city’s 32 boroughs. However, there are exceptions to this rule. In this article, we will discuss how to register your car as ULEZ-compliant and the requirements for ULEZ emissions.
What are the ULEZ emissions requirements?
To be considered ULEZ-compliant, petrol cars must meet the Euro 4 standard for nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, emitting fewer than 0.08 grams of NOx per kilometer driven. Diesel cars must also meet this benchmark for NOx emissions and produce fewer than 0.0045g/km of particulate matter, in accordance with Euro 6 standards.
How do I find out my car’s emissions?
Your car’s tailpipe emissions can be found in the ‘vehicle details’ section of its V5 document, listed according to the Euro emissions standard that was in effect when it was registered. If your V5 doesn’t list NOx emissions separately, you will have to consult the certificate of conformity (CoC) that was supplied with the vehicle when it was new. This document proves its compliance with European emissions regulations.
However, if you are not the first owner of your car, it is unlikely that you still have the original CoC. Some manufacturers offer replacement CoCs, but they may only provide them for newer vehicles and charge a fee of over £100.
How do I apply to make my car ULEZ-compliant?
To register your car as ULEZ-compliant, you can apply through the Transport for London (TfL) website. You will need a copy of the V5C and a copy of the CoC. If you do not have the CoC, you can provide a letter from the manufacturer’s homologation department stating which Euro standard your car meets.
After submitting your application, it is essential to check the TfL website regularly, as some motorists have reported their cars being added without notification.
Which older cars are actually ULEZ-compliant?
While many pre-2001 cars should theoretically comply with ULEZ standards, given that post-2001 examples are registered as compliant, it is challenging to determine with certainty whether a specific car would be considered ULEZ-compliant. This is due to the limited number of people who have applied for compliance instead of replacing their cars with newer ones.
However, there is greater clarity around cars popular with enthusiasts who make the extra effort to register their cars as compliant. The Lotus Elise S1, Lotus 340R, and later examples of the MG F, which all share the Rover K-Series engine, are reputed to be compliant with the NOx requirements. Owner’s clubs and online forums can provide valuable information about cars with a cult following.
It is worth noting that classic cars that qualify for the historic vehicle tax exemption, built more than 40 years ago and registered as such with the DVLA, are exempt from paying the ULEZ charge. Therefore, all vehicles built before January 1, 1973, are automatically exempt.
Conclusion
While there are several hoops to jump through to prove an older car is ULEZ-compliant, it is possible. By checking your car’s emissions standards, consulting the necessary documents, and applying through the TfL website, you can register your car as ULEZ-compliant. It is important to stay informed about the latest updates and regularly check the TfL website after submitting your application. Additionally, owner’s clubs and online forums can provide valuable insights into specific car models’ compliance. Remember that classic cars built more than 40 years ago and registered as such with the DVLA are exempt from the ULEZ charge.