Mayor Sadiq Khan has issued a warning that starting in 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) will lose their exemption from London’s Congestion Charge. In the past, EVs enjoyed the benefits of the Cleaner Vehicle Discount, but they will now face charges as part of a wider initiative aimed at reducing the number of vehicles in the city center.
Transport for London has announced that January 2 will mark the implementation date for several changes. Electric van and lorry drivers will receive a 50% discount upon entering the zone, while electric car drivers will receive a 25% discount.
Consequently, electric vehicle operators will now have to pay a £13.50 fee to enter the zone, while electric van owners will be charged £9. According to BBC’s Top Gear, approximately 112,000 vehicles have been registered for the discount.
However, by March 2030, these discounts will be further reduced to 25% for electric vans and lorries, and 12.5% for electric cars. Simultaneously, the standard Congestion Charge for non-electric vehicles will increase from £15 to £18 starting January 2, marking the first hike since 2020.
Residents residing within the zone can expect reductions of up to 90%. Nevertheless, individuals moving into the zone after March 1, 2027, will not be eligible for a discount unless they drive an electric vehicle.
Discounts of up to 100% will continue to support low-income and disabled Londoners. Mayor Sadiq Khan stated, “Keeping London moving by reducing congestion is crucial for our city and economy. We must encourage Londoners and businesses to adopt more sustainable modes of travel.”
Christina Calderato, TfL’s Director of Strategy, emphasized the importance of managing traffic and congestion effectively for London’s prosperity. The adjustments to the Congestion Charge scheme aim to strike a balance that promotes the transition to cleaner vehicles and sustainable transport options.
In a press release from Transport for London, Izzy Romilly, Sustainable Transport Manager at climate charity Possible, expressed support for tying the Congestion Charge to public transport fares and emphasized the need to invest in accessible and affordable public transport for a healthier and fairer London.