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London Ends EV Congestion-Charge Exemption on Dec. 25, New Rates Start Jan. 2

TfL says the change preserves the scheme’s congestion purpose, with EV owners only getting the £13.50 rate by registering for Auto Pay.

Overview

  • From 2 January 2026 the standard Congestion Charge rises to £18 when paid on the day or in advance, and EVs on Auto Pay will pay £13.50.
  • The late-payment rate increases to £21 for payments made after travel within the allowed window.
  • The 90% residents’ discount is retained for existing recipients until 1 March 2027, and new applicants after that date must own an EV to qualify.
  • Qualifying back-to-base car-club EVs remain fully exempt under the updated rules.
  • TfL cites avoiding roughly 2,000–2,200 extra weekday vehicles, while the AA and business groups criticise higher costs, with some drivers warned of bills reaching about £3,000 a year.