**Key Changes to Vehicle Tax for Electric and Low Emission Vehicles**
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has announced significant changes to vehicle tax for electric and low emission vehicles. The main change is the introduction of the Expensive Car Supplement (ECS) for vehicles with a list price of more than £40,000. This supplement applies to the standard rate of vehicle tax and requires drivers to pay £425 a year for the first five years in which the standard rate is paid. The ECS is a flat rate of £425 per year, regardless of the vehicle’s actual emissions. This means that drivers of electric vehicles with a list price of more than £40,000 can end up paying £620 per year for their road tax, in addition to the standard rate. **Eligible Vehicles and Exemptions**
Not all electric and low emission vehicles are subject to the ECS. Vehicles with a list price of £40,000 or less are exempt from the supplement. Additionally, vehicles that are eligible for the Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) grant are also exempt from the ECS. Examples of eligible vehicles include:
* Nissan Leaf with a list price of £27,000
* Hyundai Kona Electric with a list price of £25,000
* BMW i3 with a list price of £27,000
These vehicles are eligible for the AFV grant, which can help to offset the cost of purchasing an electric vehicle. **Impact on Drivers and Road Users**
The introduction of the ECS has significant implications for drivers and road users. With the increasing number of electric and low emission vehicles on the road, there is a greater risk of drivers failing to pay their vehicle tax. This can lead to a significant increase in the number of untaxed vehicles on the road. According to the Money Saving Expert, the number of untaxed vehicles on the road has increased since paper discs were abolished. The most recent available data from the Department for Transport (DfT) shows that there are 498,000 untaxed vehicles on the road, down from 719,000 in 2019. However, this data should not be compared to previous years due to a change in methodology. The police are using number plate recognition technology to spot those untaxed vehicles on the road. However, the success of this technology in reducing the number of untaxed vehicles is unclear. **Education and Awareness**
The shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles is undeniable, and as more manufacturers bring cost-effective EVs to market, we expect to see even greater adoption. However, education around these tax changes is key to ensuring drivers make informed decisions about their next vehicle. Mike Fazal, motoring expert and CEO at Leasing.com, added: “The introduction of the ECS is a significant change to vehicle tax, and drivers need to be aware of the implications. The ECS is not just about the tax itself, but also about the education and awareness that comes with it.”
**Table: Vehicle Tax Rates and Supplements**
| Vehicle Type | Standard Rate | ECS | Total Rate |
| — | — | — | — |
| Electric Vehicle | £140-£205 | £425 | £565-£630 |
| Hybrid Vehicle | £140-£205 | £0 | £140-£205 |
**Conclusion**
The introduction of the ECS for electric and low emission vehicles has significant implications for drivers and road users. Education and awareness are key to ensuring drivers make informed decisions about their next vehicle. Drivers should be aware of the ECS and the implications of the change, and take steps to ensure they are complying with the new tax regulations.
Additional Information
The DVLA has provided a range of resources for drivers to learn more about the ECS and the changes to vehicle tax. These include:
* A webpage dedicated to the ECS, where drivers can find information on eligibility, exemptions, and how to pay the supplement. * A guide to vehicle tax, which provides an overview of the standard rate and the ECS. * A phone number and email address for drivers to contact the DVLA with any questions or concerns. By taking the time to educate themselves and stay informed, drivers can avoid any unnecessary penalties or fines and ensure they are complying with the new tax regulations.