Drivers planning long-distance trips may encounter higher expenses under the new pay-per-mile tax scheme, which is expected to significantly increase travel costs.
New Pay-Per-Mile Car Tax Could Cost Drivers £1,080 for ‘Average’ Mileage
By Lydia Amazouz
Published on 20 September 2024 11:57
Under the new pay-per-mile auto tax scheme, drivers going from London to Manchester or London to Edinburgh will be charged £120.
Drivers Warned About Increased Costs for Family Visits Under New Pay-Per-Mile Tax
Motorists have been cautioned that visiting family on the other end of the country could be pricey under the current Labour government.
Majid Ismailzada, Marketing Director & Motoring Expert at GM Direct Hire, said that many families are concerned about the new tax. “With the cost of fuel and other expenses rising, the added burden of a pay-per-mile tax could make long-distance travel over the holidays less appealing for many,” he explained.
According to research, a family travelling from London to Manchester (200 miles one way) would travel 400 miles round trip. According to analysis, at a pay-per-mile rate of 15p per mile, households may face an additional £60 in tax for the drive, reports BirminghamLive.
Amy Harker who lives in Manchester with her 4-year-old son stated: "As a single mother, every penny counts, and with rising living costs, adding an extra £60 just for driving home to see family makes it difficult to justify the trip. I’m now reconsidering our travel plans this year, as the tax alone could take away from gifts or other essentials for my son."
Long-Distance Drivers Face Potential £1,080 Tax
For those travelling long distances, such as the 400-mile journey from London to Edinburgh, the tax could add up to £120 for a round trip. Similarly, someone making six annual trips from London to Manchester, covering 2,400 miles in total, could face a tax of £360.
The average UK motorist drives about 7,000 miles annually, which could lead to £1,080 in charges for simple visits to family, friends, or colleagues across the country. Thankfully, despite ongoing discussions, the introduction of this complex system, which would require infrastructure like number plate recognition, is expected to take several years to roll out.