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Zero-emission zones 2025: everything you need to know

Nieuws
Diks Autoverhuur, Dec 24, 2024, 2:00 PM

Starting January 1, 2025, zero-emission zones (ZEZ) will be introduced in various Dutch cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. These new regulations may have a significant impact on your daily operations as an entrepreneur, but fortunately, transitional rules will be in place until 2030. In this blog, we break everything down for you, so you know exactly what to expect.

What are zero-emission zones?

Zero-emission zones are urban areas where, starting in 2030, only vehicles without exhaust emissions will be allowed to drive. This means that polluting vans and trucks—whether diesel or petrol—will no longer have access. The goal of these zones is to improve air quality, reduce CO₂ emissions, protect the climate, and promote the health of city residents.

Access rules until 2030

You might be wondering: do we all have to switch to fully emission-free vehicles right away? Fortunately, that's not the case! Starting January 1, 2025, zero-emission zones will primarily target polluting vans, trucks, delivery trucks, and tractor units. Transitional rules will apply until 2030, meaning certain vehicles can still enter these zones temporarily, provided they meet specific emission standards. In some cases, exemptions or waivers may also be possible.

The first step you can take is to check your vehicles. Refer to the image on the side or click the button below to see if your vehicles comply with the new regulations. Do you have an older diesel van? Then it’s important to check whether your vehicle qualifies for an exemption or waiver. By 2030, these exceptions will no longer apply, and only emission-free vehicles will be allowed.

Note: The ban only applies to vans and trucks, not to regular passenger cars. All DIKS vehicles meet the required standards and have access to the zero-emission zones.

Check your vehicle

What is the difference between zero-emission zones and environmental zones?

Both zero-emission zones and environmental zones aim to reduce vehicle emissions, but there are key differences:

    • Zero-emission zones are only accessible to vehicles without exhaust emissions, such as electric vans and hydrogen-powered vehicles. The goal is to make urban areas completely emission-free. Polluting vans and trucks running on fossil fuels (such as petrol and diesel) will eventually be banned from these zones, regardless of their age or emission class. Transitional rules will apply until 2030.

    • Environmental zones focus on vehicles that meet specific emission standards. In these zones, vehicles that do not comply with these standards (such as older diesel or petrol cars) are prohibited, but low-emission vehicles can still enter.

What does this mean for you?

We understand that the introduction of new zero-emission zones can be a challenge for small and medium-sized businesses and may significantly impact your mobility. However, with the right preparation, you can smoothly adapt to these changes.

If your vehicles do not meet the new requirements, that doesn’t have to be a problem. Instead of immediately investing in new vehicles, you can rent from us. All DIKS vehicles comply with the regulations and have access to both environmental and zero-emission zones. Whether you need a vehicle temporarily or for a longer period, we offer flexible, tailored solutions to keep you moving.

At DIKS, we know how important it is to stay flexible and mobile. Do you have questions or want to learn more? Feel free to contact us or create a business account directly using the button below.

Create your business account here