Do electric cars have to pay congestion charge?

That means you won't need to pay the fee if you drive into a congestion zone in an electric car, so that can save some real money if you regularly drive in the city. Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) are not exempt from the charges, and you'll have to pay if you drive in congestion charge zones.



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In December 2025, TfL will stop the Cleaner Vehicle Discount, which allows EVs to be exempt from the Congestion Charge. Unless changes are made before 2025, all EVs will have to pay the Congestion Charge to access the London Congestion Charge zone during their charging hours.

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Who is exempt from the congestion charge? Zero-emission vehicles such as electric cars are exempt from paying the congestion charge, as are motorbikes. If you drive an EV, you need to apply for the Cleaner Vehicle Discount before driving into the charge zone.

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However, the rules were changed in 2021, as new measures designed to further reduce congestion and improve air quality were introduced. Under the latest rules, hybrid car drivers are now liable to pay the same flat fee as drivers of fully petrol or diesel-powered vehicles.

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Download the Congestion Charge Zone map from TFL, as this outlines exactly where the zone is, so you can try to drive around it. You can also keep an eye out for the signs to avoid entering the area. Drive a lower emission car if possible. Electric cars are exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

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