Paris and Lyon, considered “ZFE Territories” due to their frequent exceeding of pollution thresholds, will be the first to apply strict measures. From January 1, 2025, these two metropolises will prohibit the circulation of Crit'Air 3 vehicles in their ZFE perimeters. This decision is part of the Climate and Resilience Law of 2021.
Montpellier and Grenoble, although classified as “Vigilance Territories”, have chosen to anticipate these restrictions. They are following in the footsteps of Paris and Lyon by also excluding Crit'Air 3 vehicles from January 1, 2025. This decision is sparking debate, particularly in Montpellier where some elected officials consider the calendar ” unrealistic« .
In Marseille, Rouen and Strasbourg, the situation is evolving differently. Initially planned to ban the Crit'Air 3 in 2025, these cities benefit from a reprieve thanks to an improvement in air quality. For the moment, they are content to exclude Crit'Air 4, 5 and unclassified vehicles. These changes are reminiscent of recent new traffic bans for diesel and gasoline vehicles in several French cities.
The expansion of EPZs across France
The year 2025 will also mark the arrival of 30 new EPZs in France. These towns must at least prohibit the circulation of unclassified vehicles, in accordance with the Climate and Resilience Law. Here is an overview of the restrictions planned in some of these new zones:
- Lille, Nantes, Caen: exclusion of unclassified vehicles
- Nancy: ban on Crit'Air 5 and unclassified heavy goods vehicles and utility vehicles
- Dijon, Toulon: exclusion of Crit'Air 5 and unclassified vehicles
- Metz: ban on unclassified cars and utility vehicles
It should be noted that some cities, such as Le Mans, have been exempted from the obligation to set up an ZFE. To find out more about the specificities of each zone, consult our complete guide on ZFE-m and impacted zones.
Adapting to new restrictions
Faced with these changes, motorists must organize themselves. Here are some tips for adapting:
- Check the classification of your vehicle : The Crit'Air sticker is mandatory to travel and park in ZFEs.
- Commander in vignette : It costs €3.70 and can be obtained on the website of the Ministry of Ecological Transition (allow a week's delay).
- Find out about exemptions : Some cities, such as Lyon, offer “small riders” exemptions allowing up to 52 accesses per year to the ZFE.
- Anticipate alternatives : Consider carpooling, public transportation or purchasing a less polluting vehicle.
In Paris, a “24-hour ZFE pass” system will be put in place, authorizing excluded vehicles to travel up to 12 times per year in the zone. This measure is in addition to restrictions already in place, such as the ban on traffic in the heart of Paris.
Impact on urban mobility
The extension of EPZs will have a significant impact on urban mobility. Here is an overview of the expected changes:
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Air quality | Expected improvement |
| Road traffic | Possible reduction |
| Public transport | Increase in attendance |
| Vehicle fleet | Accelerated renewal |
These changes are part of a broader trend of transformation in urban mobility. For example, the passage of the Paris ring road at 50 km/h illustrates this desire to rethink traffic in large cities.
ZFEs represent a major challenge for many motorists, but also an opportunity to rethink our modes of travel. By anticipating these changes and informing yourself about the available alternatives, it is possible to adapt effectively to these new restrictions, therefore contributing to the improvement of air quality in our cities.
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