Cities and regions dotted across the country are rolling in new clean air zone charges to combat harmful pollutants that some vehicles emit into our atmosphere.
Particularly in London, the Congestion Charge has been in place for some time now, meaning drivers have had to be aware of what their vehicles emit.
One way to avoid this is by subscribing to an electric vehicle with Pivotal. Did you know that if you drive an electric vehicle then you’ll be Congestion Charge-exempt when making your way through the capital?
To do this, registering through Transport for London’s scheme is required. However, another benefit to be reaped from subscription is that we’ve made that a job already done for you.
The Congestion Charge
When then-London mayor Ken Livingstone introduced the Congestion Charge in 2003, the idea was to reduce the levels of traffic on London’s roads, thus lowering the volume of emissions being produced by cars which were proven to have negative consequences on the environment and health of locals.
The charge has naturally increased over time. It was initially £5 that was charged on a daily rate but this has risen 200% since to adjust for inflation.
In turn, this charge has been used to invest in London’s public transport network. The result of the Congestion Charge saw increased numbers of people using London’s buses and Underground systems – approximately 33% more bus users were noted in central London since the scheme’s inception.
However, personal preference for driving and not wanting to wait on public services remained a factor when deciding on the mode of transport for many.
Exemption for electric cars
This is where electric cars can exploit the Congestion Charge scheme. You will be able to drive freely through the centre of the city without contributing any harmful pollutants and not needing to pay the £15 daily fee. It’s a win-win.
Not knowing about the Congestion Charge or your potential exemption means you could incur hefty bills through the post if you regularly drive through the city. This isn’t a problem for those who get a Pivotal car subscription as not only does the charge not apply to them, the Congestion Charge exemption registration is all taken care of by us, whether it’s a personal or business vehicle.
There are other exemptions to the Congestion Charge, however, like motorbikes, people with disabilities, larger vehicles containing more people, and local residents, all of which need to apply themselves.
To view all the details involved with subscriptions, and how else the Congestion Charge hassle can be eased by Pivotal.
