Londons New Ultra Low Emission Zone

[10ClarionSt]

When unleaded petrol was introduced, we were told that there would be a big reduction in harmful emissions from vehicles, but unleaded would cost more. Then we were told that all vehicles had to be fitted with catalytic converters. This would be an even bigger improvement on harmful emissions, but these would add a cost to the price of vehicles. Now it seems, that those measures have had no effect because people are dying due to harmful emissions, so, just ban vehicles all together. That'll fix 'em! It seems to me that any "measures" that are taken are just a money-making scheme. All the motorists are gonna pay!

[Gromit]

// When unleaded petrol was introduced, we were told that there would be a big reduction in harmful emissions //

No we weren’t. We were told there would be less/no lead. Burning leaded or unleaded petrol has the exact same emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants (apart from the lead.

[Gromit]

// the motorists are gonna pay! //

Yep but only if you want to go in the ultra low emission zone. You will need a clean vehicle, and those are more expensive. Of course the manufacturers make more money, not the Government.

[Old_Geezer]

The aim of less pollution is a worthy one, but using it as an excuse to fleece one part of society of money is both unworthy and inexcusable. If one can make a valid case for less vehicle pollution then ban new sales of high polluting vehicles and watch the levels fall over time. If there is a particular problem in a few small areas, consider the pros and cons of banning vehicles there altogether. However, allowing pollution to continue while raking in cash is the preferred option of immoral authorities.

[dave50]

So those who cannot afford to buy a new car will in effect be banned from driving into the city centre unless they pay this disgusting tax.

[goodgoalie]

This is going to be discussed on the Jeremy Vine Show on Radio 2 later today(Mon), with Sadiq Khan defending it. Should be on around 1:30 pm

[ToraToraTora]

Is this on top of the existing congestion charge?

[goodgoalie]

Yes, for cars it's £12.50 on top

[Buenchico]

TTT:
The ULEZ charge (£12.50 per day for cars that fail to comply with the relevant emissions standard or up to £100 a day for larger non-compliant vehicles) is on top of the £11.50 payable (for any motorised vehicle that hasn't got a exemption) to drive within the Congestion Charge zone.

The Congestion Charge only applies between 0700 and 1800 on weekdays but the ULEZ charge applies at all times.

[youngmafbog]

Money making scam, nothing else.

The people living in these areas will be paying dearly, not just on this tax but also on the elevated price of goods and serves as Tradespeople seek to recoup the extra.

[youngmafbog]

"Of course the manufacturers make more money, not the Government."

Was that deliberate short sightednes on your part GRomit?

More expensive vehicle means more VAT for a start. In addition once the Vehicle list price goes over £40K then additional "Road Tax" of £410 is payable annually.

[ToraToraTora]

TBH if I lived in central London I don't think I'd have a car anyway.

[Old_Geezer]

If you could afford central London you could probably get your chauffeur to drive in and pick you up anyway.