London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – London Mayor Sadiq Khan plans to raise the Congestion Charge from £15 to £18, removing EV exemptions, prompting concerns for drivers and garages.
As reported by The Telegraph, Sadiq Khan faces calls to protect professional drivers from rising Congestion Charges in London.
What did the IGA say about Sadiq Khan’s congestion charge plans?
The Independent Garage Association called on Sadiq Khan to allow exemptions for essential vehicle servicing, MOTs, and repairs at independent garages.
The association warned that garages “keep London moving” and should not be penalised for supporting the shift to electric vehicles.
Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, stated,
“London has historically led the way on congestion and clean air measures, with its policies often shaping approaches in other cities.”
He said,
“Getting this right is crucial; keeping essential servicing exempt ensures any future changes are fair, safety-focused, and supportive of the independent garages that are vital to road safety.”
Mr Douglass stated,
“London has historically led the way on congestion and clean air measures, with its policies often shaping approaches in other cities.”
He added,
“Getting this right is crucial; keeping essential servicing exempt ensures any future changes are fair, safety-focused, and supportive of the independent garages that are vital to road safety.”
The IGA said the hikes could unfairly affect independent garages and the motorists who rely on them.
The association raised concerns that new EV fees
“will hike bills for motorists and squeeze already tight margins for independent garages.”
According to the group, reducing EV benefits conflicts with government goals under the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate.
The association added,
“Consumers who have been encouraged to make the switch to EVs with the promise of lower running costs may feel penalised, while garages that have already invested heavily to support this transition are left disadvantaged. Such measures risk eroding confidence in EV ownership at a time when uptake needs to be supported and incentivised, not discouraged.”
IGA warns against slashing consultation on major changes from 10 to six weeks and linking the Congestion Charge to Tube fares
What did Seb Dance say about congestion charge changes and EV costs?
London’s Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, said easing traffic is “vital for London and its economy.”
He said the Congestion Charge has been a “huge success,” but TfL must ensure it remains “fit for purpose.”
Mr Dance warned that maintaining the “status quo” could push around 2,200 more vehicles through the Congestion Charge zone daily next year.
He added,
“At the same time, we must support Londoners and businesses to use greener and more sustainable travel.”
Mr Dance highlighted that the Congestion Charge increase comes with measures to support greener travel and urged all to respond to the public consultation.
What’s changing for electric vehicles in London’s Congestion zone?
Under the new plans, Transport for London raises the Congestion Charge to £18, ending long-standing EV exemptions.
TfL will end the full electric vehicle exemption. It plans to introduce a Cleaner Vehicle Discount instead. The new proposal will offer partial discounts for electric cars, vans, and HGVs.
What did Richard Dilks say about car clubs in London?
Richard Dilks, chief executive of CoMoUK, said,
“Car clubs are making a big contribution to reducing car ownership and mileage in London, with members more likely to embrace active travel and public transport too.”
He stated,
“Each car club vehicle replaces 31 private cars in the capital, freeing up space, cutting congestion and improving air quality.”
Mr Dilks labelled it as
“utterly baffling if car clubs were treated as private cars under these changes.”
Key facts about TfL
TfL was established on 3 July 2000 under the Greater London Authority Act 1999. The current Commissioner is Andy Lord, and the organisation is chaired by Mayor Sadiq Khan.
It manages 272 London Underground stations. The body oversees the DLR, London Overground, trams, buses, river services, Santander Cycles, and major roads. It also handles fares and branding for some National Rail services.