What changed?
The Cleaner Vehicle Discount, which gave electric vehicles a 100% exemption from the Congestion Charge, closed on 25 December 2025. From 2 January 2026 it was replaced by a smaller discount:
| Vehicle | Discount | Daily charge (via Auto Pay) |
|---|---|---|
| Electric car | 25% | £13.50 |
| Electric van or HGV | 50% | £9 |
| Any other vehicle | None | £18 |
TfL has said these discounts will be halved again on 4 March 2030.
You must use Auto Pay
The discount only applies to vehicles registered for TfL Auto Pay, which is free to join. Pay any other way and you pay the full £18 — or £21 if you pay in the days after.
What about the ULEZ?
Electric cars remain fully compliant with the ULEZ, so they don’t pay the £12.50 ULEZ charge. It’s only the Congestion Charge that has changed.
The risk for EV drivers
Drivers who got used to free entry are now the most likely to be caught out by a £180 penalty. If you’re not on Auto Pay, EveryDrive can alert you when you enter the zone and remind you to pay.