London to End Congestion Charge Exemption for Electric Vehicles
LONDON – Electric vehicle owners in London will soon be required to pay the Congestion Charge, ending a long-standing exemption designed to encourage the adoption of zero-emission vehicles. Transport for London (TfL) is preparing to phase out the discount, citing concerns that increasing numbers of electric vehicles are beginning to negate the charge’s effectiveness in reducing congestion. A formal proclamation detailing the changes is expected within weeks.
the move impacts current and prospective electric vehicle owners who have benefited from the exemption since the Congestion Charge was introduced in 2003. TfL estimates that without changes, approximately 2,200 more vehicles will enter the Congestion Charge zone on an average weekday next year, potentially worsening traffic. The decision comes as London aims to balance its environmental goals with the need to manage traffic flow in the city center.
Edmund King, from the AA, expressed concern that removing the incentive “may backfire on London and backfire on the surroundings.” He stated, “Getting rid of the discount, there is no doubt it will put off many drivers.” King also pointed out that congestion in central London is already severe, suggesting that adding a few more electric vehicles wouldn’t considerably worsen the situation, calling the move “a negative step” that is “coming far too early.”
The changes will be implemented in stages.From March 4, 2030, the discount for electric vans, HGVs, light quadricycles, and heavy quadricycles registered for Auto Pay will be reduced to 25%. Electric cars will see a smaller reduction, with the discount lowered to 12.5%. tfl previously proposed scrapping the exemption entirely, but has opted for a phased approach.
The Congestion Charge currently applies to most vehicles entering the central London zone between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. The standard charge is £15 per day. The upcoming changes reflect a shift in TfL’s strategy as the number of electric vehicles on London’s roads continues to grow.
