Start of emission-free zones in Amsterdam: All changes from 1 January

On 1 January 2025, Amsterdam introduced emission-free zones for new scooters, vans, and lorries, with transitional rules for existing vehicles to phase in these changes. Emission-free means no harmful emissions from the exhaust, and these rules will apply differently to vehicle types and areas. New scooters registered on or after 1 January 2025 must be emission-free to operate in urban areas, with transitional arrangements until 2030 for older vehicles. Similarly, new vans and lorries within the S100 must also meet emission-free requirements starting in 2025, with older vehicles given a transition period until 2030. The city provides tools like a map and a registration number check to help vehicle owners comply with these regulations, writes Carolina Ramos.

To support entrepreneurs in transitioning to clean transport, Amsterdam offers a transition package with subsidies, including €3,000 for electric vans or testing other sustainable options. This scheme will run until June 2028 or until funds are depleted. Additional measures include extending the low-emission zone for diesel cars and vans to within the A10 ring road, requiring compliance with emission standard 5 or higher. Diesel lorries must meet standard 6 or higher to operate between the A10 and the S100. The taxi low-emission zone will end in 2025, aligning taxis with the general passenger car rules.

Amsterdam is also introducing incentives to scrap older diesel vehicles and adopt cleaner alternatives. Diesel cars or vans with emission standard 4 or lower can be scrapped for a subsidy of €1,000, or €1,500 for holders of a Stadspas. Stricter rules for parking permits will apply from January 2025, allowing only emission-free vehicles and certain compliant petrol, diesel, and alternative fuel vehicles. Existing permits will remain valid, ensuring a gradual transition to sustainable transport across the city.

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