ULEZ / CAZ

Fleets can expect to see a radical change in their access to cities in the coming years as a growing number of urban areas introduce pollution limits or ban vehicles altogether.

A patchwork of initiatives is being launched throughout the country as local authorities attempt to reduce levels of local air pollution to meet government targets and improve health.

London led the way, with the introduction of a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in 2008, while an Ultra-Low Emission Zone followed in 2019.

Other cities have been mandated by the government to introduce a Clean Air Zone.

The online vehicle checker is available now: https://www.gov.uk/check-clean-air-zone-charge

These are Birmingham, Leeds, Derby and Southampton, while Brighton, Norwich and Oxford have also taken action.

The government has also named 23 local authorities where it expects pollution levels to reach illegal levels by 2021. They have all been told to carry out a feasibility study to determine whether a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is required.

In addition, the Scottish Government plans to have four LEZs, with the first already up and running in Glasgow. Further initiatives are planned in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee.

Most LEZs do not actually ban higher-emission vehicles from entering, but instead impose daily charges at certain times, when traffic is heaviest. Failure to pay may result in heavy financial penalties.

Some local authorities suggest going further, such as Bristol, which proposes to ban all diesel cars and York, which wants a car-free city centre.

The government has provided broad guidance on the type of CAZ schemes that could be introduced.

There are four classes of Clean Air Zone:

1. Class A - Buses, coaches, taxis and private hire vehicles

2. Class B - Buses, coaches, taxis, PHVs and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)

3. Class C - Buses, coaches, taxis, PHVs, HGVs and light goods vehicles (LGVs)

4. Class D - Buses, coaches, taxis, PHVs, HGVs LGVs and cars

Buses, coaches and HGVs that meet Euro VI emissions standards must be exempt from any charges or restrictions.

Cars, vans and taxis that meet Euro 6 (diesel) or Euro 4 (petrol) emissions standards must be exempt from any charges or restrictions.

Ultra-low emission vehicles with a significant zero-emission range must be exempt from charges or restrictions.

Industry analysis has suggested that more than half of the vehicles currently operating in areas identified for a CAZ do not comply with proposed emissions standards.

Reflex Vehicle Hire is working with fleet customers to help them minimise the impact of these changes and reduce their emissions.

We already provide one of the cleanest fleets in the UK, with our commercial vehicles and cars meeting the highest current emissions standards.

We offer a wide range of electric and hybrid vehicles that minimise pollution and ensure long-term access to urban areas.

We can also support customers to help them replace their current fleet with our flexible hire services.

In addition, we are working closely with local authorities and government to monitor developments through our membership of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, Freight Transport Association, Van Excellence and industry associations such as AFP (Association of Fleet Professionals), including taking part in briefings at the Houses of Parliament, where we can engage directly with senior politicians.