At Right Fuel Card, we know staying compliant with road regulations is vital for your fleet’s efficiency and safety. That’s why we’ve partnered with legal experts at Weightmans to bring you a clear guide on the 2025 Highway Code updates. These changes affect speed limits, electric vehicles (EVs), and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). Below, Weightmans’ Michael Balmer and Zoe Leonard break down the key updates, with added insights to help your fleet adapt. Whether you manage a small fleet or a large HGV operation, we’re here to support compliance across our range of fuel card services.
20mph speed limits: stay alert, stay compliant
Wales introduced 20mph speed limits in urban areas a few years ago, sparking widespread discussion. Scotland has now followed, rolling out 20mph zones in residential and urban areas from early 2025. Local councils across the UK are also adopting these zones, particularly in high-risk areas like school zones or busy pedestrian streets.
For fleets operating across regions, this patchwork of speed limits demands vigilance. Missing signs could lead to fines or accidents. You need to ensure drivers know where 20mph zones apply. Drivers travelling in and out of Scotland must therefore stay vigilant of any upcoming changes to speed limits and ensure they are aware of potential 20mph zones.
Electric vehicles: new costs and charging standards
From 1 April 2025, electric vehicles lost their road tax exemption. New EVs face a £10 first-year charge, rising to £195 annually thereafter. From 25th December 2025, EVs must also pay the London Congestion Charge, which was previously waived. These changes increase operating costs for EV fleets, so budgeting is key. Right Fuel Card’s upcoming Rightcharge solution offers widespread EV charging access, coupled with smart, EV home charging reimbursement.
Charging providers face stricter rules, too. Cables must not obstruct walkways, spaces need clear markings, and equipment must be reliable. Non-compliance risks fines up to £10,000 per charger. For drivers, this means better charging experiences, fewer faulty units or blocked bays, ensuring drivers have access to reliable charging stations.
HGVs and fleet vehicles: enhanced safety requirements
The Progressive Safe System (PSS) is now in force for HGVs in Greater London, from 2 May 2025. This is the latest update to Transport for London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS). HGVs now require HGVs entering London to have a minimum 3-star DVS rating or alternatively have PSS fitted in the vehicle.
PSS improves driver visibility by utilising key features such as enhanced sensors and cameras, warning systems and upgraded mirrors. While the DVS scheme has been in place since 2021, fleet managers must be aware of the latest update to PSS to ensure their vehicles are compliant, particularly those based in and around London.
If you run HGVs in your business, you may also be interested in our HGV D4 Medical Test guide.
Practical steps to ensure compliance
Driver and fleet managers should ensure that they are up to date with the changes to the Highway Code to remain compliant and act proactively. Any policies should be reviewed to ensure compliance, and drivers should be trained on any relevant changes. Special attention should be given if the fleet includes electric vehicles, due to the frequent changes in guidelines and government advice.
About Right Fuel Card
Right Fuel Card is a leading UK fuel card provider dedicated to helping businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to large fleets, take control of their fuel costs and simplify expense management. Trusted by over 25,000 UK businesses and with access to over 98% fuel stations across the UK through our range of fuel cards, as well as competitive pricing and HMRC-approved digital invoicing, we make fuel management effortless whilst helping your business save money.
Our comprehensive service includes detailed online reporting, dedicated customer support, and optional RightProtect legal support for complete peace of mind on the road. Whether you're managing a single vehicle or an entire fleet, Right Fuel Card provides the tools and support you need to operate efficiently and compliantly.
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Article prepared by Michael Balmer and Zoe Leonard, Weightmans LLP, July 2025.
