Millions of UK Drivers Face New Daily Charge
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce a controversial new daily driving charge for approximately six million electric vehicle owners in her Autumn Budget on November 26. The proposed pay-per-mile car tax has drawn immediate criticism from both industry experts and motorists, who accuse the government of sending mixed signals after encouraging the switch to electric transport.
Industry Backlash and Expert Warnings
Paul Holland, Managing Director for UK/ANZ Fleet at Corpay, issued a stark warning about the new levy. He stated that the move risks "sending all the wrong signals" to drivers and businesses. "The Government can't ask drivers and fleets to go electric, then punish them for doing so," Mr Holland emphasised, highlighting the potential negative impact on the UK's transition to cleaner transport.
Public Outrage and Social Media Reaction
The announcement has sparked significant anger among motorists on social media platforms. One driver expressed frustration about the timing and logic behind the new tax, pointing out that the government had only recently introduced road fund licenses for electric vehicles. Another user recalled previous government incentives to switch to diesel, calling the current situation a "swizz" and suggesting that many potential EV buyers will now think twice before making the switch. A third commentator argued that heavier EVs cause more road damage, suggesting the tax might be justified but criticising both major political parties for what they described as "hair-brained ideas" that lack proper consideration of practical consequences.
The Treasury's expectation that around six million electric vehicle owners will be affected by this new daily charge represents one of the most significant changes to motoring taxation in recent years. With the Autumn Budget scheduled for before the end of the month, the debate around fair motoring taxation and the future of electric vehicle policy in the UK is set to intensify considerably.
