Some 57% of drivers in London are willing to switch their cars for motorcycles to offset the costs of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expansion, according to research by specialist motorbike insurer Bikesure.
Bikesure’s study claims that the impact of the ULEZ expansion, which took place on 29 August 2023, has resulted in many Londoners paying a £12.50 charge to make trips into the UK capital – particularly those from areas in Greater London with poorer public transport connections, such as Bromley and Croydon.
According to Bikesure, most motorbikes are exempt from the ULEZ charge and are reportedly cheaper than cars, with lower running costs said to save riders just over £10,000 annually.
READ MORE: London mayor rules out road pricing scheme and ULEZ expansion if re-elected
What’s more, data collated by Bikesure shows a 14% increase in on-road motorbike tests taken between April 2022 and March 2023 compared to between April 2019 and March 2020.
Bikesure general manager Robert Balls said: “An increasing number of commuters find themselves inconvenienced and out of pocket because of the ULEZ expansion.
“While the shift to two wheels is financially prudent and arguably more practical for commuters travelling into the capital, it highlights a changing landscape where the cost of motoring is prompting motorists to abandon their cars altogether.”
There are 123,500 motorbikes currently registered in London, according to Bikeshare.
Achievements and innovations in sustainable urban mobility will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Nominations are open now! Please visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector.
