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London Congestion Charge to Rise 20% to £18 with EV and Resident Discount Reforms

The measures would start in January 2026 with annual upratings, with consultation open until August 4, 2025.

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The increase in the congestion charge would apply from the start of next year

Overview

  • TfL proposes a 20% hike from £15 to £18 per day from January 2, 2026, marking the first increase since 2020.
  • Future charge levels would be tied to annual public transport fare rises to maintain the scheme’s deterrent effect.
  • Full exemption for electric vehicles would end, replaced by a 25% discount for electric cars and a 50% discount for electric vans and HGVs, with tapering scheduled by March 2030.
  • From March 1, 2027, new resident discount applications will require electric vehicle ownership for the 90% reduction, while existing beneficiaries remain unaffected.
  • TfL warns that without reforms an extra 2,200 vehicles would enter the zone each weekday, asserting the changes will boost cleaner travel; the Federation of Small Businesses warns of tighter margins; public consultation runs until August 4, 2025.