URGENT UPDATE: Major changes to London’s congestion charge are set to impact UK drivers, with electric vehicles losing their exemption starting December 25, 2025. This shift means EV owners will face daily fees, potentially adding up to £4,680 annually for frequent drivers.
Effective January 2, 2026, the congestion charge will increase from £15 to £18 per day, with penalties for late payments looming. This change is crucial for all drivers navigating the London congestion zone. Motorists need to act fast, as failure to pay the charge within three days could lead to hefty fines.
The implications are significant: if you drive an electric vehicle into London five days a week, you’ll face weekly charges of £90 starting January. However, there’s a silver lining for those willing to register. The Transport for London (TfL) Auto Pay scheme offers discounts that could save you up to £1,035 annually.
EV owners can qualify for a 25 percent discount through the Cleaner Vehicle Discount, while electric vans and HGVs may receive an even higher reduction of 50 percent. Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, emphasized the urgency, stating that drivers should set up an Auto Pay account through TfL’s website immediately to take advantage of these savings.
From Christmas Day until New Year’s Day, there will be no congestion charge, giving drivers a brief respite. However, the clock is ticking—once the new rates kick in, the financial burden will increase for many.
Analysis from Auto Express predicts that these changes will boost TfL’s revenue by between £415 million and £455 million over the next five years. This additional income will likely affect how resources are allocated within London.
Drivers are encouraged to act NOW. Register for the Auto Pay scheme to ensure you don’t miss out on these vital savings. The time to prepare is now—don’t let the new charges catch you off guard!
