Drivers face £480 pay-per-mile bill for this mileage after October
A new survey has revealed that many drivers are against the switch to a pay-per-mile road tax system, which could cost motorists hundreds to see loved ones.
Predictions that the Government could introduce a pay-per-mile road tax system are leaving a growing number of drivers concerned that they could be charged a fortune to visit loved ones.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously stated that the October Budget will be 'painful' for many Brits, with motoring experts worried that it will include several policies that will affect drivers.
Majid Ismailzada, Marketing Director & Motoring Expert at the rent-to-own firm G&M Direct Hire, warned that the proposed scheme could deter some from travelling on long-distance trips.
He explained: "It's clear that many families are concerned about the impact of this 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."
Whilst the Government has yet to confirm whether it will be changing the way in which vehicles in the UK are taxed, a pay-per-mile scheme would see drivers charged for the distance they cover throughout the year, rather than the engine size or emissions produced.
Supporters of the system claim that this set up is fairer for electric vehicle owners, who will need to pay road tax for the first time in 2025.
However, according to a poll of 2,000 drivers, 65 percent of Brits stated that the new tax would make them think twice about going to see loved ones that live in other areas of the UK.
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It is currently unclear how much drivers would be charged if a pay-per-mile tax system is introduced, but G&M Direct Hire estimates that it could be as high as 15p per mile.
If that is the case, a 400-mile round trip from London to Manchester and back would cost motorists around £60, whilst heading to Edinburgh and back from London would set motorists back some £120.
Doing this journey just four times in one month would set you back £480 that month.
The company also noted that owners of larger vehicles, more polluting vehicles may also face additional fees during the trip, such as low emission zone charges.
To help cut down on motoring costs if the new form of road tax goes ahead, G&M Direct Hire recommended that drivers be sure to plan their routes carefully.
Whilst taking the scenic route can be prettier and more relaxing, prioritising roads that make up the shortest possible journey will able to help drivers cut the controversial tax.
Carpooling shorter trips with friends and family could also be a helpful way for drivers to save money, particularly if a loved one owns a spacious SUV or MPV.
