October 8, 2024
Brussels
The Brussels Parliament has taken an important decision regarding the owners of diesel vehicles that meet Euro 5 (and higher) emission standards. According to the new regulation, the deadline for these vehicles to enter Brussels is extended until January 1, 2027. Previously, it was expected that restrictions would come into effect as early as January 2025, but the Parliament decided to extend the deadline due to the need for further adaptation of the city’s infrastructure and transport system.
Not only Brussels but also other major cities in Belgium have their own rules for the entry of diesel vehicles as part of the emissions reduction program.
Ghent and Antwerp
The entry of diesel vehicles meeting Euro 5 standards in Ghent and Antwerp will be prohibited starting from early 2025. Vehicles with lower Euro standards are already subject to a ban today. The low emission zone (LEZ) is constantly expanding, with tightening standards for vehicles. This means that from that time onward, owners of such vehicles will either have to adapt or acquire more environmentally friendly transport to move around the city.
Rules for gasoline vehicles
As for gasoline vehicles that meet Euro 5 (and higher) emission standards, they remain permissible for entry into Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp. Gasoline engines meeting Euro 5 standards are still considered sufficiently environmentally friendly and are not subject to the strict restrictions that diesel vehicles face. However, changes are possible in the future, especially in the context of the European strategy to reduce carbon footprints and increase the environmental friendliness of transportation.