Vehicle emissions contribute significantly to air pollution and carbon emissions, impacting both the environment and public health. In the UK, vehicle emissions standards and initiatives are in place to reduce the pollution caused by vehicles. This guide will walk you through what vehicle emissions are, how they’re regulated in the UK, and what you can do to minimise your emissions.

If you’re curious about how your car stacks up, you can use our app to check your vehicle CO2 emissions instantly.

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What are vehicle emissions?

Definition and key pollutants

Vehicle emissions are the byproducts released into the atmosphere when fuel is burned in a vehicle’s engine. The primary pollutants include:

o Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): A greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.

o Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Compounds that contribute to air pollution and respiratory issues.

o Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles that can penetrate the lungs, causing health problems.

o Carbon Monoxide (CO): A poisonous gas that reduces oxygen delivery in the bloodstream.

o Hydrocarbons (HC): Contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which can cause respiratory issues.

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How are vehicle emissions regulated in the UK?

Vehicle emissions standard and MOT testing

The UK has set emissions standards that vehicles must meet as part of the EU-derived regulations, which are enforced through the annual MOT test. Key standards include:

o Euro emissions standards: These classify vehicles from Euro 1 to Euro 6 based on their emission limits, with Euro 6 being the strictest standard.

o MOT emissions test: During the MOT, a vehicle’s exhaust emissions are tested, and if they exceed permitted levels, it can fail the test.

Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ)

Many cities in the UK, including those in England and Scotland, have introduced Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). These areas restrict or charge high-emission vehicles to reduce urban air pollution.

Do you know all the clean air zones? Check them here: LEZ Cities England, and LEZ Cities Scotland.

One of the most prominent examples is London’s ULEZ, which charges vehicles that don’t meet Euro 6 standards for diesel or Euro 4 standards for petrol. Use Transport for London’s ultra low emission zone vehicle checker to see if you need to pay a daily charge.

Ban on new petrol and diesel cars

The UK government has announced a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030, as part of its strategy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

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Why do vehicle emissions matter?

Environmental impact

Vehicle emissions are one of the leading contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change and impacting ecosystems.

Public health concerns

Pollutants like NOx and particulate matter contribute to poor air quality, which has been linked to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death.

Economic costs

Air pollution has economic implications, including increased healthcare costs, decreased productivity, and loss of biodiversity.

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How can you reduce your vehicle emissions?

Opt for a lower emission vehicle

Choosing a vehicle with lower emissions is one of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

o Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEVs): These vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them the cleanest choice.

o Hybrid Vehicles: Combining an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, hybrids generally produce fewer emissions than traditional petrol or diesel cars.

o Low-Emission Petrol or Diesel Cars: Some conventional vehicles are designed to meet Euro 6 standards and emit less than 110g/km of CO2, making them a lower-emission option.

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Financial benefits
The UK government supports the use of low-emission vehicles with grants and tax incentives:

o Grants: Financial assistance for purchasing qualifying low-emission vehicles.

o Lower Vehicle Tax: The Road Fund Licence (vehicle tax) rates vary based on emissions — the lower the emissions, the lower the tax you pay. Find the latest tax rates here.

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Finding the right vehicle
Our Car Search Tool in the app helps you explore a range of greener options, including:

o Used cars with emissions under 110g/km

o Hybrids and EVs from trusted used dealerships

Plus, you can check if you qualify for financing with our Finance Eligibility Checker.

Practice eco-friendly driving habits

Small changes in driving can reduce fuel consumption and emissions:

o Drive smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration, and harsh braking and cornering.

o Maintain a steady speed: Use cruise control on highways where possible and stay within the speed limits. You’d be surprised how little difference driving a little slower actually makes to your arrival time, and it’s a lot less stressful!

o Limit idling: Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute.

Keep your vehicle maintained

Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and keeping tyres inflated, improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.

Use public transport, carpool, or cycle

Reducing the frequency of car use by opting for public transport, carpooling, or cycling reduces individual emissions (and it’s great for your health too!)

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Future of vehicle emissions in the UK: What’s ahead?

Increased adoption of electric vehicles

With the government’s 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, electric vehicle infrastructure is expanding, making EVs more accessible and convenient.

Further development of low emission zones

More UK cities are expected to introduce LEZ or ULEZ areas in coming years, encouraging drivers to choose lower-emission options or alternatives to car travel.

Advancements in vehicle emission technology

Car manufacturers continue to develop new technologies to reduce emissions in hybrid, hydrogen fuel cell, and electric vehicles, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

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Vehicle emissions have significant consequences, but there are effective ways to reduce their impact. Learn more about your car’s emissions through our Vehicle Emissions Checker in our app or browse for a lower-emission used car with our Car Search Tool. Try our Motor Finance Eligibility Checker to see your potential finance options before speaking with a dealer.