Rome is implementing new regulations to manage urban traffic and parking, particularly within its Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) and blue-striped parking areas. Mobility Councillor Eugenio Patanè has signed two directives that will introduce significant changes for electric and hybrid vehicle owners.
Annual Permit for Electric Vehicles in ZTLs
The first directive introduces an annual fee of 1,000 euros for exclusively electric vehicles wishing to access Rome’s ZTLs. This replaces the previous free access regime, though parking in blue-striped spaces will remain free for these vehicles. The new system aims to address the growing number of electric cars, which, despite being zero-emission, contribute to traffic congestion and strain parking availability, especially in the historic city center.
Who is exempt from the new fee?
The annual permit will remain free for certain categories of electric vehicle owners who already have ZTL access rights due to their status. These include:
- Residents
- People with disabilities
- Sales representatives
- Hotel guests and staff
For newly registered electric vehicles, the paid permit will become active once the new issuance system is fully implemented. Current holders of free authorizations will receive communication from Roma Servizi per la Mobilità detailing how and when to apply for the new paid permit if they wish to continue accessing the ZTLs.
Paid Parking for Mild Hybrid Vehicles
The second directive revises the previous policy of free parking in blue-striped areas for hybrid vehicles. Under the new rules, mild hybrid vehicles will now be required to pay for parking in these spaces if they are non-residents within the territorial scope. Full hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles will maintain their exemption from parking fees.
This change is deemed necessary to ensure the effectiveness of blue-striped parking, which serves not only to limit private mobility but also to promote parking rotation and increase the availability of spaces. Councillor Patanè explained that mild hybrid vehicles offer limited emission benefits compared to full and plug-in hybrids, as their electric contribution is marginal and does not allow for pure electric mode driving in typical urban conditions.
Why are these changes being introduced?
Councillor Patanè emphasized that these measures are part of a broader strategy to decongest the historic center of Rome and promote sustainable urban mobility. The significant increase in electric vehicles in circulation, while positive for emissions, has led to unforeseen challenges in traffic management and parking availability. The new regulations are intended to be a regulatory tool that aligns with policies for sustainability and the protection of urban liveability.
What’s next?
The two directives will be submitted for examination by the City Council by February. Once approved, Roma Servizi per la Mobilità will provide further details on the implementation of the new permit system and parking regulations.
Additional Information
- Affected areas: Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) and blue-striped parking areas in Rome.
- Target vehicles: Exclusively electric vehicles and mild hybrid vehicles.
- Goal: Reduce traffic congestion and improve parking availability in the city center.
These changes reflect Rome’s ongoing efforts to adapt its urban infrastructure to evolving transportation trends and environmental goals.
Source: https://roma.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_febbraio_11/ztl-a-roma-l-assessore-patane-permesso-annualne-per-le-auto-elettriche-e-strisce-blu-a-pagamento-per-le-ibride-09a7f966-dc8f-40c8-9983-3ad95c6f5xlk.shtml
