Technical issues plague ULEZ vehicle check site

author: FutureCar Staff    

Transport for London's ULEZ numberplate checker website experienced technical issues today as drivers rushed to determine if their vehicles would be subject to a £12.50 daily charge starting at midnight. The policy, implemented by Sadiq Khan, extends the air quality charging zone to encompass all of London, affecting many drivers already struggling with the cost of living. To assist drivers in checking their vehicle's eligibility, TfL launched a website where registration details can be entered. However, this morning, the website displayed a warning message indicating high traffic and delays. Fortunately, the online numberplate checker is now functioning normally.

Mr. Khan's ULEZ expansion has faced significant criticism from some Londoners. The charge primarily affects petrol vehicles manufactured prior to 2005 that do not comply with Euro 4 emissions regulations. Diesel cars and vans are only exempt if their engines meet the more recent Euro 6 rules introduced in September 2015. Popular models such as the Ford Transit Custom 310s, Volkswagen Golf SE Bluemotion Tech TDI (2014), Seat Leon FR TDI (2014), Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi ecoFLEX Excite Hatchback (2014), Ford Puma Mk1 (2001), and Honda Civic 1.6i LS Limited Edition 5dr (1998) will be subject to the ULEZ charge.

The rush of people visiting TfL's online checker to determine their vehicle's compliance caused technical issues, resulting in delays. In opposition to the ULEZ expansion, protesters left a caravan covered in protest messages near Sadiq Khan's home in Tooting. The caravan, referred to as a 'Khan-ovan of hate,' criticizes the Mayor and the ULEZ policy. Some messages include statements such as 'Pay me £12.50 and you can pollute for 24 hours' and 'sack Khan.'

Despite the opposition, the Greater London Authority planners state that the majority of cars and vans already meet the ULEZ standards. However, local resistance has led to the vandalism of ULEZ cameras in outer boroughs of the capital. The data shows that a significant number of cameras are not functioning due to vandalism.

Meanwhile, a motoring lawyer known as Mr. Loophole suggests that drivers who enter newly expanded ULEZ zones without encountering warning signs may have grounds to challenge their fines. Several local authorities bordering London have refused to sign legal agreements with TfL, preventing the installation of ULEZ signs within their borders. This could potentially create issues for Mayor Sadiq Khan as the absence of clear signage may render fines invalid.

TfL assures that all necessary signs for enforcing the ULEZ scheme will be in place and clearly marked for residents. They expect drivers to be aware of the standards and boundaries through signage and public information. Non-compliant drivers will be subject to the charge and may face penalties if not paid within the specified time frame. National Highways has collaborated with TfL to provide advance warning to drivers entering the capital, and a comprehensive communications campaign has been conducted to raise awareness of the ULEZ expansion.

In conclusion, the ULEZ numberplate checker website experienced technical issues due to high traffic, Mr. Khan's ULEZ expansion has faced criticism, and several popular vehicle models will be subject to the charge. The protest caravan near Mr. Khan's home expresses opposition to the ULEZ policy. Vandalism of ULEZ cameras has occurred in outer boroughs, and the absence of clear signage may lead to fines being challenged. TfL assures that the necessary signs will be in place and that drivers should be aware of the standards and boundaries.

FutureCar Staff