UK tourists planning to visit Spain should be aware of new rules as motorists could be slapped with hefty fines for driving the wrong vehicle.
As of January 1, Low Emission Zones (LES) have been brought in across the country as Spanish officials work to push forward climate change legislation to cut carbon emissions.
Similar to legislation brought into parts of Scotland, the LEZ's - or Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE) - restrict access for certain vehicles that don't meet emission standards.
As reported by the Express, these rules will apply to municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, which number 149 across the Spanish territory.
Those who fail to comply may be hit with hefty fines of up to £176 (€200). While cars with foreign plates are exempt, tourists who rent cars will need to be aware of the rules, which include equipping the motor with an official label.
Authorities in municipalities with more than 20,000 inhabitants and high air pollution levels will also have to introduce the new measures.
These LEZ’s will restrict access, circulation and parking for more polluting vehicles, although town and city halls will have a certain degree of autonomy as to how they apply the new rules.
Hire cars will need to be newer than 2006, but most rental companies ensure their fleet is made up of the newest models. They will also ensure that all cars are road legal, especially in areas with ZBEs in force.
To enter the cities on working days between 7am and 8pm, a vehicle must comply with Euro 3 petrol standards and Euro 4 diesel. Drivers must also purchase the correct badge for the vehicle before entering the controlled zone.
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