If you're one of the many people who enter greater London in an automobile of sorts, then chances are you've already fallen prey to the emission zone charges that apply. Designed to keep London City Centre cleaner and generally more environmentally friendly, the LEZ service has been in operation since February 2008 when Mayor Ken Livingstone proposed the idea. Currently it is gearing up for its biggest change ever, which will go into effect on January 3rd 2012. The plan is to upgrade the current Euro 3 emission standard to Euro 4, meaning things are going to get a little bit stricter. Daily charges can be between 100 and 200 depending on vehicle type. So, it's important that you find out if you have a vehicle that is, or will be affected by the new scheme.

If you guessed this will lead to drivers spending more you are right; the changes are going to do just that. The shakeup will affect heavy goods vehicles, buses, coaches, larger vans and minibuses for the most part. While many of us may currently be enjoying a free ride thanks to your Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC) or Low Emission Certificate (LEC), for many older vehicles owners there may be a need to upgrade your engines filter to an approved full particulate filter in order to meet the new Euro standard. Currently under the eligible engines rule, your engine may be of Euro 1 or 2 descents but still eligible for Euro 3 free charge under certain circumstances; however with the Euro 4 standard this is set to change. Any vehicles currently in Euro 1 or 2 must upgrade their filters before January 3rd in order to make sure they keep receiving free charge while in the low emission zone. Transport for london have stated that any currently approved partial filters fitted to vehicles will not meet the new 2012 changes, so it's probably best to get it checked up just in case.

What this then amounts to is another dilemma - your certificate needing renewing. Unfortunately if you have a vehicle that needs to be altered in order to meet the new requirements, it also means you will need to apply for a new reduced pollution certificate (RPC) or low emission certificate (LEC). Any certificates that are not renewed to reflect the changes will be void and this means you won't be able to drive around the low emission zone for free. For RPC owners, this only applies to vehicles with an 'M' certificate. Any vehicles with 'P' or 'G' certificates either means they already have a full filter or that your vehicle has been converted to run on gas - these are both Euro 4 eligible. The same also applies for LEC certification; however you will need to take a retest to insure you definitely meet the requirements.

What this all essentially boils down to, is the filter on your vehicle and whether it's partial or full. Provided you have either a full filter or a converted gas engine, you should be within good standing to carry on receiving free charge in the emission zone. If on the other hand you have a partial filter or are currently on the Eligible Engines list, I'm afraid it's time to splash the cash before you'll be allowed to renew those certificates. In case you're just about to get a car, ensure you opt for a low-emission and even zero emission car to save you of the stress involved.