Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in central London must now pay the city’s congestion charge for the first time. This change, confirmed by Mayor Sadiq Khan in November, took effect on December 1, 2023. Previously, pure battery-powered EVs enjoyed a 100 percent exemption from the charge, which applies between 7:00 and 18:00 on weekdays, and from 12:00 to 18:00 on weekends and bank holidays.
The daily congestion charge for non-EV vehicles has also increased, rising from £15 to £18 (approximately $30 to $36 AUD). The adjustments mark the first increase in the charge since 2020, highlighting a shift in London’s approach to managing urban traffic and encouraging cleaner transportation options.
Phased Reduction of EV Discounts
Under the new rules, the exemption for EVs has been reduced to 25 percent for cars and 50 percent for vans and trucks. Further reductions are scheduled for March 4, 2030, when discounts will drop to 12.5 percent for cars and 25 percent for vans and lorries. Residents living within the congestion zone may still receive reductions of up to 90 percent, although those moving into the area after March 1, 2027 will not qualify for any discounts unless they own an electric vehicle.
Christina Calderato, the director of strategy at Transport for London, emphasized the necessity of these changes to ensure that London remains an attractive and functional city. She stated, “If we want to ensure that London remains a thriving city for everyone to enjoy, then it’s vital that traffic and congestion are kept under control and managed effectively.”
Calderato highlighted that the updated congestion charging scheme plays a crucial role in balancing the needs of drivers, businesses, and organizations while promoting the transition to cleaner vehicles and sustainable transportation practices. This initiative aims to address the increasing congestion issues faced by one of the world’s busiest urban centers, aligning with broader environmental goals.
As London continues to evolve its transport policies, the implications for EV drivers and the general public will be closely monitored. These changes reflect a growing trend among major cities worldwide to implement stricter regulations on vehicle emissions and promote greener alternatives in urban settings.
