What environmental label does my car have?

Zero Emissions Label

This label is awarded to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) with a minimum range of 40 km. These vehicles are the most environmentally friendly, as they do not emit any polluting gases during operation.

ECO label

Vehicles that combine electric and internal combustion engines, such as conventional hybrids and plug-in hybrids with less than 40 km electric range, receive this label. Vehicles powered by natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are also included in this category.

Label C

This label is assigned to petrol vehicles registered from January 2006 and diesel vehicles from September 2015. These vehicles comply with Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6 emission standards for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel.

Label B

Vehicles with petrol engines registered since January 2001 and diesel engines since January 2006 receive this label. They comply with the Euro 3 emission standards for petrol and Euro 4 and Euro 5 for diesel.

For more details on the environmental labels and their impact, you can visit the official DGT website.

How do I know what label my car has?

Finding out what environmental label your car has is a simple process. You can check it directly through the vehicle’s number plate. There are several ways to obtain this information:

1. Online consultation on the DGT website: The most direct way to find out what label your car has is by visiting the DGT website. You only need to enter your vehicle’s registration number in their search engine to obtain the corresponding information. This is the safest and most reliable option.

2. Via mobile apps: There are several apps that allow you to check a vehicle’s environmental label. These apps, in addition to providing the label, often offer additional information such as driving restrictions in certain urban areas.

3. Third-party platforms: You can also use specialised platforms that integrate this functionality within their services, offering a simplified and often more user-friendly process.

It is important to check your car’s label regularly, as regulations can change and with them, the classification of your vehicle.

Why is it important to know your car’s environmental label?

Knowing your car’s environmental label is essential for a number of reasons, both to comply with local regulations and to understand the environmental impact of your vehicle. Here’s why it’s so important:

1. Traffic restrictions: In many cities, especially in large metropolitan areas such as Madrid and Barcelona, environmental labels determine whether a vehicle can circulate or park in certain zones. These restrictions apply especially during high pollution episodes. Knowing your car’s label will allow you to plan your journeys and avoid penalties.

2. Tax incentives and benefits: Some local governments offer tax incentives to owners of vehicles with ECO or Zero Emission labels. These benefits may include discounts on road taxes, reduced parking fees and tolls, among others. If your car has one of these labels, you could be missing out on the opportunity to save money if you are not aware of the benefits you are entitled to.

3. Environmental awareness: Knowing what label your car has also helps you to better understand the impact your vehicle has on the environment. If you are considering changing your car, knowing the labels will allow you to opt for a greener model, thus contributing to the reduction of polluting emissions.

What to do if your car is not labelled?

Not all vehicles have an assigned environmental label. Older cars or those that do not meet minimum emissions standards may not be classified. If your car does not have a label, here are some options:

1. Vehicle upgrade: If your car is older and does not have an environmental label, you could consider upgrading to a more modern vehicle that complies with emissions regulations. This will not only allow you access to restricted areas, but will also contribute to pollution reduction.

2. Using alternative transport: If your car is not labelled and you cannot upgrade, another option is to use public transport or alternative modes of transport, such as cycling or car sharing. These options are more sustainable and often cheaper in urban areas.

3. Check local regulations: Different regulations may apply in some regions. Before making any decisions, check local regulations to better understand how driving restrictions apply in your area.

Advice for owners of B and C label vehicles

If your car has a B or C label, it is important to be aware of how these labels can affect your everyday life, especially if you live in a big city:

1. Plan your journeys: B and C labels allow driving in most urban areas, but may be subject to restrictions in high pollution episodes. Plan your journeys in advance, especially if you need to enter low emission zones.

2. Consider upgrading to an ECO or zero emission vehicle: Although your car is still roadworthy, restrictions could tighten in the future. If you are considering changing your vehicle, opting for a model with an ECO or Zero Emissions label is a long-term investment that will allow you to avoid future restrictions.

3. Drive efficiently: Regardless of your car’s label, the way you drive has a significant impact on emissions. Driving efficiently, avoiding hard acceleration and maintaining a constant speed, will not only reduce emissions, but also improve your car’s fuel efficiency.

How do environmental labels affect the purchase and sale of vehicles?

Environmental labels also play a crucial role in the car buying and selling market. Here we explain how:

1. Resale value: Vehicles with ECO and Zero Emission labels tend to hold their value better than those with B or C labels. This is due to increasing restrictions and demand for more sustainable vehicles. If you are selling your car, a favourable label could increase its market value.

2. Buyer preferences: More and more buyers are interested in vehicles with eco-labels because of the advantages they offer, such as lower operating costs and access to restricted areas. If you are in the market to buy a car, choosing one with an ECO or Zero Emissions label may offer you more advantages in the long run.

3. Fiscal considerations: When buying a car, it is important to take into account fiscal considerations. As mentioned above, vehicles with greener labels may benefit from tax incentives. Before making a decision, research the options available in your area.