Plans to increase ultra-low emissions zones will see car values plummet, experts warn

London's new pollution charge is expected to hit one million drivers

Plans to increase ultra-low emissions zones will see car values plummet, experts warn
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Owners of so-called eco-friendly family hatchbacks will likely see a plummet in the value of their car if government plans to increase the number of ultra-low emissions zones (ULEZ) in the UK gets the go-ahead, according to the Alliance of British Drivers (ABD).

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan confirmed plans for a large-scale expansion of the capital’s ULEZ which will be introduced in April 2019 and will expand up the North and South Circular roads from October 2021.

Cars entering the zone that do not meet the requirements for fee-free entry will be subject to a £12.50 daily charge.

Petrol vehicles not conforming with Euro 4 emissions standards or later will be affected, along with diesel vehicles that do not meet Euro 6 or later regulations.

The RAC has said it will be most felt “by those from low income backgrounds, as well as those who work in roles such as hospitality and depend on using a car at night”.

It is estimated that an additional 100,000 cars, 35,000 vans and 3,000 lorries could be affected by the expanded zone every day.

Ultra-low emissions zones across the UK

Nigel Humphries of the ABD said: “Many people think that as they don’t drive in London, or that they drive newish ‘eco’ cars, this won’t affect them.

“They are wrong.

“The UK government have given powers to local authorities to introduce emissions-based charges pretty much at their whim and with no justification.

“Councils all over the UK are looking to copy Sadiq Khan’s lead, Manchester being well advanced in its plan.

“Values of the many affected cars, and even some that are not currently affected will fall due to fear of future charges long before they even happen.

“If the government wish to avoid ‘Yellow Vest’ style protests they need to act now, remove such powers from local authorities and ban all such schemes.”

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