Bucharest maintains free parking for electric cars until 2026

The recent measure adopted by the General Council of the Capital allows for the free parking of electric cars, following an amendment supported by USR Bucharest. Initially, the project proposed by the general mayor Ciprian Ciucu provided for the complete elimination of free parking, including for electric vehicles. In the final form, only hybrid cars will lose this advantage starting May 1, 2026, while electric cars will continue to benefit from free parking for almost two more years. This decision marks a significant change from the mayor's initial position, who argued that free parking contributes to the overcrowding of the city and is no longer sustainable. Free parking for electric vehicles was introduced in Bucharest about 10 years ago as part of a strategy to promote non-polluting transport. In the context of the increasing number of electric cars and the pressure on parking spaces, the authorities began to reevaluate this policy. The USR amendments, supported by other political groups, led to the retention of free parking for electric cars, considered an incentive for reducing pollution and encouraging the transition to electric mobility. Critics, however, warn that such measures may exacerbate the city's congestion and lead to excessive use of public space.