After a short suspension during the Lock-down to support key workers travelling to work, the London Congestion Charge was reinstated on Monday 18th May 2020.
On the 18th March, London’s Congestion and Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) charges were both temporarily suspended due to limited public transport services and closures around the city due to COVID-19.
The Government has announced there are some changes set to come into action on the 22nd June 2020 which includes a rise in the Congestion Charge and temporarily extended hours. Sadiq Khan the Mayor of London has explained these measures are designed to help avoid attracting too much traffic to London streets following the government encouraging people to go back to work but to also avoid public transport where possible.
TfL (Transport for London) commented that the price increase and additional time covered by the Congestion Charge were designed to “create more space for social distancing when walking and cycling, ensuring that the people who have no choice but to return to work in central London can do so as safely as possible”.
These changes are expected to remain in place for one year. After 12 months they will be reviewed and a decision made on whether they should remain in place permanently.
Yes, currently Electric and Plug-in Hybrid cars or vans qualify for a 100% discount on the Congestion Charge but you must apply for the discount. From 25 October 2021, the cleaner vehicle discount will change so that only battery electric vehicles are eligible.
Search electric vehicles Our guide: How to choose the best electric carYou can apply for the discount online by setting up a London Road User Charging account.
Having an account means you can:
The Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) replaced the ‘T-Charge’ in London on the 8th April 2019. First announced in 2013 the ULEZ’s aim is to improve the city’s air quality and reduce emissions from polluting vehicles. Any vehicles which do not meet requirements will be liable for a daily charge to drive within the ULEZ area.
