London: London Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced major changes to the congestion charge policy, ending the full exemption for electric vehicles, which will now be subject to congestion charges starting today.
According to British media, Mayor Sadiq Khan said that the exemption previously granted to electric vehicles has been withdrawn, meaning electric cars will now be required to pay the congestion charge like other vehicles.
Media reports state that a new discount system will be introduced from January 2, 2026, under which registration for the Auto Pay system will be mandatory to qualify for any concession. Under the new framework, electric cars will receive a 25 percent discount, while large electric vans and other larger electric vehicles will be eligible for a 50 percent discount.
British media further reported that the daily congestion charge has been increased from £15 to £18, while late payment will result in a charge of up to £21.
Commenting on the changes, Mayor Sadiq Khan said that reducing traffic congestion is essential for the economy, adding that the cleaner vehicle discount was temporary from the outset and was never intended to be a permanent measure.
