London Congestion Charge Set to Rise and Change for EVs in 2026

The standard Congestion Charge in London for non-electric vehicles will increase from £15 to £18 starting on January 2, 2026. In a significant shift, electric vehicles (EVs) will no longer be exempt from this charge, marking a pivotal change in the city’s strategy to manage congestion and promote sustainable transport. This change reflects a broader initiative by Transport for London (TfL) aimed at reducing vehicle numbers in the city center.

From January, electric van and lorry drivers will benefit from a 50% discount when entering the congestion zone, while electric car drivers will receive a 25% discount. This means that electric vehicles will be charged £13.50 to enter, and electric vans will incur a fee of £9. By March 2030, these discounts will decrease to 25% for electric vans and lorries and 12.5% for electric cars.

Changes and Discounts for Residents

Residents living within the congestion zone can expect significant reductions, with potential discounts reaching up to 90%. Importantly, those moving into the zone after March 1, 2027, will not qualify for discounts unless they drive an electric vehicle. To support low-income and disabled Londoners, discounts up to 100% will still be available.

The changes come as Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, emphasized the necessity of reducing congestion for the city’s wellbeing and economic health. He stated, “Keeping London moving by reducing congestion is vital for our city and for our economy. While the congestion charge has been a huge success since its introduction, we must ensure it stays fit for purpose.” Khan pointed out that maintaining the current system would lead to approximately 2,200 additional vehicles entering the zone on an average weekday next year.

Support for Sustainable Transport

Christina Calderato, TfL’s Director of Strategy, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of managing traffic effectively. She remarked, “If we want to ensure that London remains a thriving city for everyone to enjoy, then it’s vital that traffic and congestion is kept under control.”

The press announcement from TfL also included comments from Izzy Romilly, Sustainable Transport Manager at the climate charity Possible. She welcomed the decision to tie the Congestion Charge to public transport fares, ensuring that public transport remains competitively priced compared to driving. Romilly stressed the importance of investing in accessible public transport, stating, “We need to cut traffic and invest in accessible and affordable public transport… This will put us on the path to a healthier, fairer London.”

With these changes, London aims to not only manage congestion but also encourage a shift towards sustainable transportation solutions, addressing both environmental concerns and public safety.