Pay-per-mile car tax warning as drivers told 'don't use the car'

Drivers urged to 'buy a used car' before new driving law from September 1
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Possible changes to the way vehicles are taxed have led to warnings about when drivers should think about using their cars. It has been reported the Government is considering introducing a new pay-per-mile tax system in a radical change to UK road taxation.

Under the changes, motorists would have to pay more tax for the more miles they drive, hitting those who regularly cover long distances or commute on a daily basis. There are also concerns about the impact on those who live in rural areas and have a lack of public transport options.

Should the new system be introduced, motorists have been told they may want to cut back on their driving as it will hit them in the pocket. Things like Sunday drives out with the family may have to go, experts warn.

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Majid Ismailzada, marketing director and motoring expert at GM Direct Hire, warned pay-per-mile charges would likely result in more people deciding to leave the car at home. He said: "It’s clear that many families are concerned about the impact of this new tax.

"With the cost of fuel and other expenses rising, the added burden of a pay-per-mile tax could make long-distance travel over the holidays less appealing for many." It is currently unknown how much drivers would be charged. But some experts have predicted that tax could be as high as 15p per mile.

If that is the case, drivers who travel 7,000 miles a year - the average distance for a UK motorist - would face a fee of £1,050 per year - more than £800 higher than the current flat rate.