This potential policy shift aligns with growing concerns over the environmental impact of the “auto-besity” trend, which has seen the average weight of vehicles increase across Europe. With heavier electric vehicles now dominating the market, the discussion on how to fairly tax vehicles has never been more urgent.
Labour : Targeting the Growing Trend of Heavier Vehicles
Between 2001 and 2020, the average weight of automobiles in the European Union increased dramatically, from 1,328 kg to 1,457 kg. The rise of electric cars (EVs), which have massive battery packs and are frequently 40% heavier than their petrol or diesel counterparts, is the main cause of this surge. For instance, the Peugeot 208 petrol model weighs about 1,200 kg, while the well-known Tesla Model Y weighs over 2,000 kg.
While EVs eliminate tailpipe emissions, experts like Nick Molden, founder of Emissions Analytics, warn they still contribute to pollution through tyre wear, brake pad particles, and road surface damage.
“Our exhaustive research has revealed that one easy metric — car weight — gives a surprisingly good estimate of overall pollution, including greenhouse gases, air toxics, noise, safety and infrastructure impacts,” Molden stated The Times. A weight-based tax system could therefore encourage the adoption of lighter vehicles, reducing these secondary sources of pollution.
Countries such as Norway have already implemented similar policies, charging a base rate of £1.15 per kilogram for vehicles over 500 kg. This model could serve as a blueprint for the UK’s tax reforms.
Rethinking Fairness in Environmental Taxation
Current vehicle taxes in the UK are based on emissions, which means heavier EVs largely escape penalties due to their lack of tailpipe emissions. However, these vehicles still impose significant environmental costs, including higher energy use during production and greater wear-and-tear on infrastructure.
EVs will be subject to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) for the first time starting in April 2025, which will change how tax laws approach these vehicles. The weight-based tax system’s proponents think it might offer a more equal foundation. For instance, Molden’s proposal suggests reducing annual tax by £100 for vehicles that are 150 kg lighter than average or for drivers who travel 620 fewer miles per year.
This reform, if adopted, could simplify the process of choosing an environmentally friendly car by aligning financial incentives with the true environmental impact of a vehicle.
