January 3rd 2012 will see the introduction of stricter Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) regulations in London – extending the measures already in place.

The current LEZ was started in 2008 as a way of encouraging diesel goods vehicle owners to take a more responsible approach to vehicle emissions pollution in the London area.

The LEZ covers most of greater London, and vehicles operating within the LEZ boundaries must meet certain standards or face a hefty fine. Significant improvements in air quality have been seen since 2008, but despite these improvements London’s pollution is still a concern.

For this reason, from January 2012 the screw is set to start turning on heavily polluting vehicles. With new, stricter LEZ rules in place more vehicles will be affected.

How does the LEZ operate?

Unlike the congestion charge, the LEZ runs 24 hours a day 365 days a year, and vehicle movement within the area is monitored by cameras that will record vehicle details.

The boundaries of the LEZ are marked on all roads on approach.

From January 3rd 2012, all applicable freight vehicles will need to meet Euro III emission standards, a standard to which any vehicle registered after January 2002 already complies.

Failure to meet the new, stricter LEZ regulations could mean a penalty of £1000.

What this means for TMC clients with deliveries into the LEZ

TMC Transportation is pleased to announce that all its vehicles already comply fully with Euro IV emission standards. This means that the new regulations have no impact on our services or costs for deliveries inside the London LEZ.

In fact, our new vehicle soon to be delivered will be Euro V standard.

TMC Transportation operates a modern fleet of vehicles and is fully compliant with the LEZ rules.

As a result, our clients may rest assured that there are no additional costs, no charges to pass on and no risk of vehicles being impounded with customer goods on board.