Electric vehicle owners in some regions may travel toll roads without paying through the end of the year, with current applicability centered on federal highways such as M-11, M-12, and the Central Ring Road among others. The program relies on a dedicated system that requires a contactless transponder, which must be obtained from the toll authority. An electric vehicle must be registered in the system with a corresponding marker to qualify for free passage. It will not work to attach a generic transponder to a standard vehicle in hopes of free tolls, as the tolling system will still bill for the trip.
Officials note that the initiative is part of a broader effort to promote electric transportation within the region. If the trial proves successful, there is potential to extend the program. At present, electric cars represent a relatively small portion of the overall fleet. For example, a government agency reported that the number of registered electric passenger vehicles was in the low tens of thousands at the end of 2022, indicating substantial room for growth in adoption rates and supportive infrastructure.
Expert opinion
Maxim Kadakov, editor in chief of a motor-focused publication, commented on the policy. He noted that any support for motorists is welcome, yet free tolls on major highways will mainly benefit those who already own electric vehicles and frequently undertake long trips between major cities. For typical drivers, the incentive may feel limited, especially since the upfront cost gap between electric and conventional cars remains a factor. He pointed out that a broader change would occur when electric vehicles reach price parity with gasoline counterparts, which could then redefine the incentive landscape.
Kadakov also mentioned concerns about charging infrastructure along toll corridors. He suggested that a robust charging network is essential to realizing the full benefit of toll exemptions. If the price gap narrows to around the same level as gasoline vehicles, the economic argument for switching becomes much stronger and the policy gains broader appeal.
- Video coverage of the policy discussion is available from major regional outlets.
Source: Commercial