URGENT UPDATE: UK drivers must act now as significant changes to London’s congestion charge scheme take effect this festive season. Starting December 25, 2025, electric vehicles (EVs) will no longer enjoy exemption from the congestion charge, which could cost drivers up to £4,680 annually if they frequently enter the zone.
Effective January 2, 2026, the daily congestion charge will increase from £15 to £18. The new rates will apply to all vehicles, including those previously exempt. Pay now to avoid higher fees later: the advance payment rate will rise to £18, and fees for payments made after three days will skyrocketing to £21.
Motorists should brace for the financial impact. If you drive into the congestion zone five days a week in an EV, you could face a new weekly fee of £90. This change translates to an additional £4,680 in annual motoring expenses, a significant hit for many drivers during these challenging economic times.
However, there is a silver lining. By signing up for Transport for London’s (TfL) Auto Pay scheme, EV drivers can access substantial discounts. Registration grants eligible electric car drivers a 25 percent reduction and a 50 percent reduction for electric vans, HGVs, and quadricycles.
Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, strongly encourages affected EV drivers to create an Auto Pay account through TfL’s website. He states, “For those driving into London five days a week, the financial difference is substantial. It amounts to £18.75 saved weekly and £862.50 annually under the current rate, rising to £22.50 weekly and £1,035 annually from January.”
This change is not just a minor adjustment; it is projected to yield an increase in revenue for TfL between £415 million and £455 million over the next five years.
As we approach the end of the year, drivers must prepare for these changes that will impact their wallets directly. With no congestion charge from December 25 through the New Year’s Day bank holiday, drivers have a brief window to consider their options before the new fees kick in.
Stay informed, adjust your driving habits, and consider signing up for the Auto Pay scheme to lessen the financial burden. Share this information widely as it could save others from unexpected charges. The time to act is NOW!
