Government issues statement with millions facing road tax rise

The new car tax bands will hit electric vehicle owners for the first time since 2017

The Government has defended plans to introduce road tax to millions of drivers. Radical shifts will come into play from April 2025, as even electric vehicle (EV) owners will now be hit by road tax.

The Treasury says it continued to support the automotive sector - but the plans remain controversial among EV drivers. Those driving electric vehicles were previously given a pass to encourage a move away from petrol and diesel options but that incentive is set to disappear.

Up in arms about the change, Conservative leader of Northumberland County Council, Glen Sanderson lamented the government's decision. He said: "This is a slap in the face for climate change, and for all those who bought electric cars."

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In his words: "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."

Cars that run quietly but could be seen as green pariahs if registered between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2025, are facing a "standard rate" tax fee, which amounts to £190 for 2024.

Fighting back against Cllr Sanderson's critique, a Treasury spokesperson defended their position saying: "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 announced: "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."

Additionally, they clarified, "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."