Hundreds of electric car drivers will continue to make their way around the UK’s capital safe in the knowledge their 100 percent electric car remains unaffected by the London Congestion Charge.
A new Ultra Low Emission Discount (ULED) replaces the existing Greener Vehicle Discount and Electric Vehicle Discount as it comes into effect from 1st July 2013.
The move ensures that only the greenest zero and ultra-low emission vehicles, that emit 75g/km or less of CO2 and meet the Euro 5 emission standard for air quality, will not have to pay the £10 per day charge, meaning that even formerly eligible vehicles such as some well-known hybrids, small capacity petrol and diesel-engined vehicles, will no longer qualify.
It’s estimated that more than 20,000 drivers who were previously well within the guidelines, will now have to pay, unless they alter their means of transport.
If you are in the market for a congestion charge-beating electric car, here’s ElectricCarsReport’s top choice:
1. Nissan Leaf – Og/km of CO2
2. Mitsubishi i-MiEV / Peugeot iOn / Citroen C-Zero – Og/km of CO2
3. Renault ZOE – Og/km of CO2
4. Renault Fluence – Og/km of CO2
5. Renault Kangoo Z.E. – Og/km of CO2
6. Renault Twizy – Og/km of CO2
7. Smart ED – Og/km of CO2
8. Vauxhall Ampera / Chevrolet Volt – 27g/km of CO2
9. Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid – 48g/km of CO2
10. Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid – 59g/km of CO2
