Low Emission Zone Standards to be given shakeup in 2012

Created Date: 24/05/2011

If you’re one of the many people who enter Greater London in an automobile of sorts, then chances are you’ve already fallen prey to the emission zone charges that apply. Designed to keep London City Centre cleaner and generally more environmentally friendly, the LEZ service has been in operation since February 2008 when Mayor Ken Livingstone proposed the idea. Currently it is gearing up for its biggest change ever, which will go into effect on January 3rd 2012. The plan is to upgrade the current Euro 3 Emission Standard to Euro 4, meaning things are going to get a little bit stricter. Daily charges can be between £100 and £200 depending on vehicle type. So, it’s important that you find out if you have a vehicle that is, or will be affected by the new scheme.

For drivers, this usually amounts to more spending. In layman’s terms, it’s going to be heavily linked to renewing your certificate and/ or changing the engine filter as to whether you need to shell out the cash or not. The shakeup affects heavy goods vehicles, buses, coaches, larger vans and minibuses for the most part. While many of you may currently be enjoying a free ride (thanks to your Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC) or Low Emission Certificate (LEC)),  many older vehicles' engines filter may need to be upgraded to an approved full particulate filter; in order to meet the new Euro Standard. Currently under the Eligible engines rule, your engine may be of Euro 1 or 2 descents but still eligible for Euro 3 free charge under certain circumstances; however with the Euro 4 standard, this is set to change. Any vehicles currently in Euro 1 or 2 must upgrade their filters before January 3rd in order to make sure they keep receiving free charge while in the Low Emission Zone. Transport For London have stated that any currently approved partial filters fitted to vehicles will not meet the new 2012 changes, so it’s probably best to get it checked up just in case.

What this then amounts to is another dilemma – that your certificate will need renewal. Unfortunately if you have a vehicle that needs to be altered in order to meet the new requirements, it also means you will need to apply for a new Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC) or Low Emission Certificate (LEC). Any certificates that are not renewed to reflect the changes will be void and this means you won’t be able to drive around the Low Emission Zone for free. For RPC owners, this only applies to vehicles with an ‘M’ certificate. Any vehicle with ‘P’ or ‘G’ certificate either means it already has a full filter or that the vehicle has been converted to run on gas – these are both Euro 4 eligible. The same also applies to LEC certification. However, there is need for a re-test to ensure the requirements are met.

What this all essentially boils down to is the filter on your vehicle and whether it’s partial or full. Providing that you either have a full filter or a converted gas engine, you should be within good standing to carry on receiving free charge in the emission zone. If on the other hand you have a partial filter or are currently on the Eligible Engines list, I’m afraid it’s time to splash the cash before you’ll be allowed to renew those certificates. In case you're just about to get a car, ensure you opt for a low-emission and even zero-emission car to save you of the stress involved.

SOURCES
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/lez/17701.aspx#tkt-tab-panel-4
http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/fuels-and-environment/london-low-emissions-zone.html

Article written by Tom Wellburn

More Motor Industry News