August M
A long-running incentive for cleaner transport in London has come to an end, marking a notable shift in the capital’s traffic and climate policy. The change arrives just as motorists return to work after the holidays, adding fresh pressure to the city’s roads.
The decision affects thousands of drivers who until now had avoided one of London’s most controversial charges.
Policy shift begins
According to the Express, electric vehicle drivers in central London are now required to pay the congestion charge for the first time. The move follows an announcement made in November by Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan and took effect on Friday.
The standard daily congestion charge has also risen, increasing from £15 to £18. This is the first price hike since 2020 and applies to vehicles that are not fully electric.
The congestion charge zone, first introduced in 2003, operates between 7am and 6pm on weekdays, and from noon to 6pm on weekends and bank holidays.
Reduced EV discounts
Until now, fully electric vehicles benefited from a 100% discount. That exemption has been sharply reduced. From Friday, electric cars receive a 25% discount, while electric vans and lorries qualify for a 50% reduction.
Transport authorities have confirmed that these discounts will shrink further in the coming years. From March 4, 2030, the reduction will fall to 12.5% for cars and 25% for vans and lorries.
The change signals a move away from blanket incentives for EVs as their numbers on London’s roads continue to rise.
Residents and exemptions
Residents living inside the congestion charge zone can still apply for discounts of up to 90%. However, those moving into the area after March 1, 2027, will lose access to this benefit unless they own an electric vehicle.
City officials say the revised rules are designed to balance environmental goals with traffic reduction, as congestion levels remain high despite increased EV adoption.
The policy has already drawn criticism from some drivers, who argue it undermines efforts to encourage cleaner transport.
Timing adds pressure
The change comes just ahead of what the AA calls “manic Monday”, the first working Monday of the year. The motoring organisation has warned it is typically one of the busiest days for breakdowns.
January 5 earned the nickname due to a spike in call-outs, as drivers return to cars that may have gone unused over the Christmas period. Combined with the new charges, experts say the start of the year could prove costly for London motorists.
Sources: Express
