ULEZ and LEZ: What's the difference

Ulez (Ultra Low Emission Zone) and Lez (Low Emission Zone) are two separate environmental initiatives in London, England. Ulez was introduced in April 2019 as part of the Mayor of London’s plan to tackle air pollution and reduce the amount of toxic fumes in the city. Lez was introduced in 2008 to reduce the amount of diesel-powered vehicles on the roads and encourage the use of cleaner, greener alternatives.

The main difference between Ulez and Lez is the vehicles they apply to. Ulez applies to all vehicles, from cars, vans and motorbikes to HGVs, buses and coaches. The charges apply to vehicles that do not meet certain emissions standards. The emissions standards for cars, vans and motorbikes are based on Euro 4 for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel. For HGV’s, buses and coaches, the emissions standards are based on Euro 3 for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel. Vehicles that do not meet the standards will be charged a daily fee of £12.50.

In contrast, Lez only applies to diesel-powered vehicles. The emissions standards are based on Euro 3 for all diesel vehicles. Those that do not meet the standards will be charged a daily fee of £100.

Both Ulez and Lez are designed to reduce the amount of air pollution in London. Ulez is more comprehensive as it applies to all vehicles, whereas Lez only applies to diesel-powered vehicles. Ulez is also more affordable, with a daily fee of £12.50 compared to the £100 fee for Lez.