Do Electric Cars Pay the Congestion Charge in 2026?

Wondering if electric cars pay the congestion charge in London? Unfortunately, electric cars are no longer exempt from the Congestion Charge in London. Since 2nd January 2026, electric cars have to pay the standard rate of £18 if they don’t go through AutoPay, or if they go through AutoPay, EV drivers are eligible for a 25% discounted rate of £13.50.

Electric vans, HGVs and quadricycles get a 50% discount if registered for AutoPay.

The perks of electric cars are extensive: cheaper running costs, zero emissions at the tailpipe, and a smoother, more comfortable ride, but is the Congestion Charge exemption still a benefit of going electric?

We unpick everything to do with electric cars and the Congestion Charge.

What is the Congestion Charge?

In 2003, Transport for London (TfL) introduced the Congestion Charge in the hopes of reducing air pollution, slashing traffic, and aiding London’s transition to become a net-zero-carbon city by 2030.

Every time you enter the Congestion Charge area, charges apply if you don’t meet the emission standards.

Where is the Congestion Charge?

The zone covers the London inner ring road, including the West End and the City of London.

Signposts display a red circle with a white C in the middle to indicate when you are approaching these areas, and number plate recognition is used to calculate charges.

How much is the EV Congestion Charge in 2026?

Do hybrids pay the Congestion Charge?

Yes, regular hybrids pay the full Congestion Charge.

Do plug-in hybrids pay the Congestion Charge?

Yes, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles pay the full Congestion Charge fee of £18, with their exemption revoked in October 2021.

Are hydrogen cars exempt from the Congestion Charge?

No, hydrogen vehicles pay the same rate as battery electric vehicles: 25% off at £13.50 if paid through AutoPay.

What are the Congestion Charge operating hours?

Are there any days when the Congestion Charge is free?

Yes, between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the Congestion Charge is free for every vehicle.

Bank holidays are not included, meaning you pay your usual fee.

Do electric cars need to register for a discount?

Absolutely. Even if you have a fully electric vehicle, you can’t drive through the Congestion Charge zone without applying for the Cleaner Vehicle discount. Otherwise, you will be charged the full standard fee of £18.

How do I apply for the Cleaner Vehicle Discount?

Apply for your EV Cleaner Vehicle Discount directly on the TfL website.

Make sure you have your V5C vehicle registration certificate on hand.

How much does it cost to apply for the Cleaner Vehicle Discount?

It costs £10 per application, and it needs to be re-applied for every year.

What are the discounted rates for those who are eligible?

Will the Cleaner Vehicle Discount for the Congestion Charge change again soon?

The discounted Cleaner Vehicle discount for battery electric cars will be reduced to 12.5% from 4th March 2030, likely in line with the UK’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles.

That means, when it comes to the congestion charge and electric cars, the discount will be reduced further. EV drivers will therefore be charged £15.75 every time they enter the zone.

Are there any other Congestion Charge areas in the UK?

No, no other city in the UK has a Congestion Charge, but other areas have introduced Zero Emission Zones in the hopes of slashing their carbon footprint, which feature a similar model.

The Congestion Charge changes: A summary

Is the Congestion Charge the same as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)?

No, both tackle air quality, but the ULEZ and Congestion Charge are two different entities and areas.

And while electric cars are not exempt from the congestion charge, there’s no ULEZ charge; electric cars are completely free to enter.

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