The EV Congestion Charge exemption has ended
The 100% discount that let electric cars drive into central London without paying the Congestion Charge has ended. Since 2 January 2026, electric vehicles registered for TfL Auto Pay get a 25% discount on the charge instead. TfL says that discount falls to 12.5% from 4 March 2030.
The Congestion Charge itself is £18 a day. Check the current rules and how to register on TfL's discounts and exemptions page.
What EV drivers pay now
| Before 2 Jan 2026 | Now | |
|---|---|---|
| Congestion Charge | EVs exempt (100% discount) | £18/day, with a 25% discount for EVs registered for Auto Pay (12.5% from 4 Mar 2030) |
| ULEZ | EVs meet the standard | EVs meet the standard |
| Vehicle excise duty (road tax) | EVs pay since April 2025 | EVs pay since April 2025 |
What about pay-per-mile road pricing?
Pay-per-mile road pricing for London has been discussed, but we haven't been able to verify any confirmed TfL plan, consultation, rates or start date. Treat any per-mile figures you see quoted as speculation until TfL publishes them.
How to cut your other EV costs
With the Congestion Charge exemption gone, the biggest running cost you control is how you charge.
Option 1: Switch to an off-peak tariff
Overnight EV tariffs from several suppliers charge much less per kWh than a standard tariff, so charging at home overnight usually costs far less per mile than petrol or public rapid chargers.
Option 2: Install solar panels
Solar panels plus a smart EV charger let you charge from your own generation when the sun is out. A 4kW system produces around 3,400 kWh a year, which can cover a good share of your charging, though how much depends on when the car is at home.
Option 3: Claim the grants available
Stack your savings:
- Chargepoint grant: £500 or 75% of the cost, whichever is lower, for eligible households
- Up to £3,750 off a new EV
- 0% VAT on installed solar panels until 31 March 2027
- ECO4: solar can be funded for eligible households until 31 Dec 2026
Register for Auto Pay: The 25% EV discount applies only if your vehicle is registered for Congestion Charge Auto Pay. Check your eligibility on TfL's site before you drive into the zone.