The Government has staunchly defended its move to impose road tax on millions of drivers starting from April 2025, with the plans extending to include electric vehicle (EV) owners.
Once hailed as an eco-friendly perk to drive EV adoption, the Treasury has confirmed that even these greener modes of transport will soon fall into the road tax net.
The backlash has been swift and vocal, particularly among those who chose EVs to contribute to environmental sustainability. Glen Sanderson, the Conservative leader of Northumberland County Council, has openly criticised the policy shift: “This is a slap in the face for climate change, and for all those who bought electric cars.”
Expounding his dismay, he added: “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.”
Vehicles that were once silent symbols of ecological commitment, if registered from April 1, 2017, to March 31, 2025, now face the standard rate tax fee of £190 for 2024, reports Birmingham Live.
In response to Cllr Sanderson’s criticism, a spokesperson for the Treasury hit back, stating: “We are committed to supporting our automotive sector as we transition to electric vehicles in order to meet our legally binding climate targets.”
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.”