UK drivers face 'slap in face' from government over road tax rise

No caption
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)


The Government has stood behind its contentious plans to start taxing electric vehicle (EV) owners from April 2025, in a move that will see even those who previously benefitted from a tax exemption facing road tax charges. The shift aims to align EVs with the wider vehicle tax system, according to the Treasury which claims it continues to support the automotive sector, despite pushback from EV drivers who enjoyed the tax free perk as an incentive to ditch petrol and diesel cars.

Outspoken against this development is the Conservative leader of Northumberland County Council, Glen Sanderson. He described the Government's plans as "This is a slap in the face for climate change, and for all those who bought electric cars."

His view on the matter was clearly stated: "This announcement, which was slipped in over the weekend, is a serious and very disappointing step. For many, the free road tax was the incentive to go for an electric car. The previous government deliberately did not change this tax to help the UK on its green promises."

READ MORE: Toys from the 80s and 90s that everyone misses

This new "standard rate" tax, will affect quieter-running cars as well, potentially tarnishing their green status if they were registered between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2025, costing them £190 in tax fees for 2024.

In response to Cllr Sanderson's criticisms, a spokesperson for the Treasury retorted: "We are committed to supporting our automotive sector as we transition to electric vehicles in order to meet our legally binding climate targets.", reports Birmingham Live.

The government has declared: "From April 1, 2025, drivers of electric and low-emission cars, vans and motorcycles will need to pay vehicle tax in the same way as drivers of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles do. This change will apply to both new and existing vehicles and will ensure all drivers begin to pay a fairer tax contribution."

They also added further details, stating: "Electric and low-emission cars registered between April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2025: You will pay the standard rate. This is £190 for 2024 but is subject to change for 2025."