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Welcome to the first Charger.ro newsletter of 2025! As the new year unfolds, we’re here to guide you through the latest trends in electric mobility, sustainability, and smart energy solutions. In this edition, we’ll dive into what to expect in 2025, including key regulatory updates and practical advice for navigating the EV landscape in Romania.

Explore how changing car taxes could impact your budget and whether free parking perks for electric and hybrid vehicles in Bucharest remain valid this year. Discover the latest parking payment options to make your city trips seamless and efficient.

Here’s to another year of driving the future together!

EV Trends to Watch in 2025

As the electric vehicle market accelerates in 2025, exciting new trends are shaping the future of mobility. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Longer-range batteries: Advanced battery technology drives EV ranges past 600 km on a single charge, making long-distance travel easier.
• Faster charging infrastructure: Ultra-fast chargers capable of adding 300 km of range in under 15 minutes are becoming more widespread, reducing downtime for EV drivers.
• Energy-efficient designs: Automakers focus on lightweight materials and improved aerodynamics to enhance energy efficiency and performance.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) integration: EVs are evolving into mobile energy sources, allowing users to power homes or sell energy back to the grid during peak demand.
• Expanding EV incentives: European governments, including Romania, are introducing or extending financial benefits like tax breaks and subsidies for EV buyers.
• Diverse EV models: Expect a broader range of electric vehicles, from affordable compact cars to electric SUVs and luxury models, catering to every budget and lifestyle.
• Improved user behaviour and charging habits: Drivers are adopting smarter charging habits, such as using slow charging during off-peak hours. This not only reduces electricity costs but also minimises stress on the grid while extending battery lifespan.

These trends are revolutionising how we drive, making EV ownership more accessible, practical, and sustainable than ever!

What can you find new on the blog?

#1 Free parking in Bucharest for electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid cars: Valid in 2025? Parking payment methods in Bucharest

Offering free parking for electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid vehicles in Bucharest was one initiative to encourage the transition to more sustainable transport and reduce pollution in the capital. However, in 2025, the question remains: Is this benefit still valid, and what changes have occurred?

Updates on the topic: What changed in 2025?

The free parking policy for environmentally friendly vehicles will remain valid in 2025 but with some changes. Bucharest City Hall (PMB) adjusted the eligibility criteria and procedures for obtaining the necessary vignette.

According to the latest legislative update:

• Electric cars continue to benefit from full free parking.
• Plug-in hybrid vehicles are eligible only if their CO? emissions are below 50 g/km.
• Classic hybrids benefit from partial free parking, depending on the cylinder capacity and emissions.

The authorities have also implemented a digital system for verifying eligibility, which has reduced bureaucracy and the time required to obtain the vignette.

Below is the official communication from https://cmpb.ro/

"Following the Decisions of the General Council of the Municipality of Bucharest no. 706 of 22.12.2022 and 370 of 20.12.2024, starting with 01.01.2025, electric and hybrid cars benefit from free use of the public parking service within the Bucharest Municipality. [...]"

Read the entire article here: https://charger.ro/blog/parcare-gratuita-in-bucuresti-pentru-masini-electrice-plug-in-hibride-si-hibride-inca-valabila-in-2025-metode-de-plata-a-parcarii-in-bucuresti

#2 Car taxes and their impact: what you need to know in 2025?

Every year, drivers in Romania must stay updated on legislative changes related to road taxes to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure they comply with the regulations in force. The year 2025 will bring hot topics such as the electronic vignette, the tax on means of transport, and the possible introduction of an environmental tax. Here is an updated guide to the most crucial road taxes and their impact on drivers.

1. Vignette and road taxes

The electronic vignette, known as the "rovinieta," remains an obligation for all drivers using Romanian national roads. The price of the "rovinieta" varies depending on the type of vehicle and its validity period.

• Current prices: For example, for cars, the cost varies between €3 (for 7 days) and €28 (for one year).

Control and sanctions: Automatic controls by video cameras placed on main roads have significantly reduced vignette evasion—fines for not having one start at 275 lei for cars.

Implementing a toll system based on kilometres travelled ("pay as you drive") is also being discussed. This system could replace the current vignette system in the coming years.

Find our more, here: https://charger.ro/blog/taxele-auto-si-impactul-acestora-ce-trebuie-sa-stii-in-2025

Thank you for joining us in the first Charger.ro newsletter of 2025! As we embrace a year of innovation and opportunity, we’re committed to keeping you informed and empowered in your journey toward sustainable mobility. Whether you're exploring new EV trends, navigating policy updates, or seeking practical tips for optimising your energy use, Charger.ro is here to support you every step.

Stay tuned for more insights, and let’s make 2025 a milestone year for a cleaner, smarter, and greener future together! ????? Meanwhile, visit www.charger.ro!