These drivers face big car tax rises in weeks due to pay per mile plans

Motoring experts have raised fears that certain road users will be more impacted than others as a result of a pay per mile car tax changes.

Although details are yet to be confirmed, there are rumours a per mile system could be on the horizon.

It would likely replace the standard Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) charge which stands at £190 per year.

It comes after Adam Smith, a former staffer to ex-Chancellor Jeremy Hunt claimed that “preparatory work on a road pricing scheme” had begun.

However, a range of professionals have suggested these demographics could be more impacted by changes to the tax system.

Commuters 

Simply, a pay-per-mile fee would issue charges to motorists based on how much they drive with those travelling regularly more impacted.

Bradley Post, managing director of tax specialists RIFT said: “​​There’s certain to be a degree of negativity with any major shake-up and the change to a pay-per-mile car tax system are no different.

“For a start, those who cover a high number of miles, particularly those running small businesses, are likely to be hit hardest.”

The Campaign for Better Transport has previously highlighted that the increase in data collection may mean motorists are charged more for travelling at certain times.

This could see charges rise at rush hour or even driving through certain parts of a city centre.

Silviya Barrett, Director of Policy and Campaigns, commented: “Drivers can be charged more during peak times or in more congested areas but that would require the system knowing where you’re driving and at what time.”

Motorists living in rural areas 

Those living in the countryside away from local amenities and their place of work will likely be more impacted.

There is expected to be a lack of public transport in these areas compared to major cities which will force many to keep their cars.

Nick Zapolsi, the founder of ChooseMyCar, has warned those living in the country may stand to “lose the most” under a pay-per-mile charge.

He said: “These individuals typically have longer commutes and fewer public transport options, meaning the tax could disproportionately affect their budgets.”

Mr Post also added: “Those who also live in rural areas and are more reliant on driving will also be impacted to a greater extent as well.”

Families 

Heading to school, visiting grandparents, attending social clubs or doctor appointments, quite simply families rely on their vehicles more than most.

Steve Tuckwell, former Conservative MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip previously warned driving was a “necessity to stay employed and access essential services”.

The vehicles are important to ensure families can drop their “kids to school and get to work”.

He added: “Penalising these individuals for their unavoidable travel distances is unfair. Economically, this tax would hit low-income families the hardest.”

Meanwhile, Howard Cox, founder of FairFuelUK stressed that certain families will be “crucified” by the changes.

He said: “There is a little matter of methodology and privacy, too, that will inflict a massive uncertainty of actual cost on drivers, with a big brother nanny state knowing every inch of where we travel.

"The cost of implementation will be off the scale, meaning small businesses, logistics, and low-income families will be financially crucified.”