Stockholm in Sweden will be the first city with a zero-emission zone. On December 31, 2024, Environmental Zone Class 3 will be implemented in an area within Kungsgatan, Birger Jarlsgatan, Hamngatan, and Sveavägen, just one day before the city of Rotterdam in the Netherlands (starting on January 1, 2025). However, Stockholm’s zero-emission zone is very small compared to Rotterdam.
The rules for which vehicles are allowed in Environmental Zone Class 3 are regulated in the Traffic Ordinance and are the same throughout Sweden. The City of Stockholm cannot adjust them. What applies to Environmental Zone Class 3? Environmental Zone Class 3 imposes the highest requirements on vehicle travel in the zone.
For passenger cars, the following applies: Pure electric, gas vehicles with emission class Euro 6, and fuel cell vehicles are allowed. Plug-in hybrids are not allowed. The following applies to light trucks and light buses: Pure electric cars, gas vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles are permitted. Plug-in hybrids are not allowed. The following applies to heavy trucks and buses: Pure electric vehicles, gas vehicles with emission class Euro 6, and Fuel cell vehicles are permitted. Plug-in hybrids with emission class Euro 6 are allowed. Petrol and diesel vehicles will be completely prohibited.
The rules for which vehicles are exempt in Environmental Zone Class 3 are regulated in the Traffic Ordinance and are the same throughout Sweden. The City of Stockholm cannot adjust them. Exceptions will be made, for example, for emergency vehicles such as ambulances, police cars, and fire engines, as well as mobility service vehicles and vehicles where the driver or passenger has a disability parking permit. There is no exception for diplomatic vehicles
The selected area is located in the City and is essential to Stockholm residents and the city’s tourism industry. Many pedestrians in the area are exposed to poor air quality from traffic. It is one of Sweden’s most accessible areas for travel without a car. Environmental Zone Class 3 is also expected to create a safer and more pleasant street environment for walking and cycling and more space for activities and businesses at ground level. It is also likely to contribute to a quicker transition to electric cars, lower noise levels, and reduced emissions, thereby making the inner city more attractive to a broader range of people.
The EU Commission has reviewed whether the regulation for the environmental zone hinders the free movement of trade in fossil-fueled vehicles. During the review period, no new decisions could be made. On April 17, 2024, the EU gave the green light for Environmental Zone Class 3, and the work for its implementation on December 31, 2024, now continues as planned.
Source: Trafik Stockholm