ZFE: Crit’Air 3 vehicles granted a temporary exemption in Reims

Although they were supposed to be banned starting January 1, 2024, Crit’Air 3 vehicles will ultimately be allowed to circulate in Reims for a few more years.

Weeks after Lyon, and while Paris seems ready to reconsider its stance on the issue, Reims is also easing the rules of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ). The city announced in a statement that Crit’Air 3 vehicles would ultimately not be banned on January 1, 2024, as initially planned. This date will mark the start of a 5-year moratorium on the matter. Consequently, Crit’Air 3 bans in Reims will not come into effect before 2029.

The implementation of LEZs raises many social questions. The measure hits modest households hard, who do not always have the means to replace their vehicle. However, it is primarily because air quality has improved that Reims has agreed to soften its stance. “As I announced when implementing the LEZ, it will adapt to changes in air quality during its implementation”, explained Arnaud Robinet, Reims’ mayor. These very good results lead us to implement a moratorium, and the ban on vehicles with CRIT’AIR 3 stickers will not be enforced in January 2024″.

Reims expands financial aid for purchasing less polluting vehicles

Meanwhile, Reims still aims to encourage its residents to drive less polluting vehicles. To this end, the city has increased the aid cap for vehicle replacement from €13,000 to €21,000. This financial boost, which can reach €3,000 for low-income households, is available for the purchase of an electric vehicle or one classified as Crit’Air 1 or 2. To be eligible, one must part with a vehicle considered polluting (from unclassified to Crit’Air 3).

The municipality also announced the creation of a LEZ pass for residents of Grand Reims who drive Crit’Air 4 and 5 models. Usable 52 times per year, it will allow them to circulate for 24 consecutive hours within the LEZ.

Read also: LEZ Grand Paris: Crit’Air 3 ban postponed