"Two-thirds of Northern Ireland drivers have said a proposed new tax on electric vehicles (EVs) would put them off switching from petrol and diesel cars. The controversial move, which Chancellor Rachel Reeve is expected to announce in her Budget next week, would see EV owners hit with a 3p per mile charge - meaning a driver with an average annual mileage of 7,000 miles could face an extra £210 in tax each year."
"EV adoption in NI is growing rapidly, with new figures showing there were just under 40,000 of them on the roads as of June 2025 - more than double the number two years ago.* Motorists who own petrol or diesel vehicles pay a tax when they buy fuel, while EV owners have so far escaped fuel levies, saving them an average of £600 a year.**"
"A survey by car insurance experts at CompareNI.com found that 67 per cent of drivers here would be reluctant to switch to EVs if the new scheme comes into force. The poll of 800 NI motorists also found that 60% of respondents were not in favour of the proposed levy, suggesting the majority of drivers believe the Treasury should find other ways to fill the hole in public finances."
A proposed 3p-per-mile charge on electric vehicles would add about £210 annually for a driver covering 7,000 miles, removing previously enjoyed fuel-levy savings. EV owners have so far avoided fuel duty, saving an average of £600 per year. EV numbers in Northern Ireland reached just under 40,000 by June 2025, more than double two years earlier. A poll of 800 motorists found 67% would be reluctant to switch if the charge is introduced, 60% oppose the levy, 80% would not choose EVs without a legal ban, and 81% believe Northern Ireland is not ready for EVs. Industry groups warn uptake could slow.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
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