The London Congestion Charge will undergo significant changes starting on January 2, 2026, as part of a strategic initiative to reduce traffic in the city center. The standard charge for non-electric vehicles will rise from £15 to £18. This increase marks the first adjustment in rates since 2020.
In a notable shift, electric vehicles (EVs) will no longer be exempt from the Congestion Charge, which previously provided the Cleaner Vehicle Discount. Beginning in 2026, electric car drivers will pay £13.50 to enter the congestion zone, while drivers of electric vans and lorries will see a 50% discount, resulting in a charge of £9. By March 2030, these discounts will decrease, with electric vans and lorries receiving a 25% discount and electric cars a 12.5% discount.
Residents within the congestion zone will benefit from reductions of up to 90%. However, new residents moving into the zone after March 1, 2027, will not qualify for discounts unless they drive electric vehicles. Additional support will remain available for low-income and disabled Londoners, with discounts reaching up to 100%.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, emphasized the necessity of these changes in maintaining the flow of traffic and fostering economic growth. He stated, “Keeping London moving by reducing congestion is vital for our city and for our economy.” Khan further highlighted that without these adjustments, the congestion zone could see an increase of approximately 2,200 vehicles on an average weekday within the next year.
In support of the changes, Christina Calderato, Director of Strategy at Transport for London, noted that effective traffic management is crucial for the city’s future. “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,” she said.
The adjustments to the Congestion Charging scheme align with broader sustainability goals. Izzy Romilly, Sustainable Transport Manager at the charity Possible, welcomed the connection between the Congestion Charge and public transport fares, advocating for accessible and affordable transport solutions. Romilly stated, “We need to cut traffic and invest in accessible and affordable public transport, and make sure Londoners can walk, wheel and cycle safely.”
These changes reflect Transport for London’s commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable environment while balancing the needs of drivers and the public. As London prepares for these adjustments, the focus remains on fostering a healthier urban landscape for all residents.
