In the 2015 Budget, the Government announced a series of changes to road tax which will come into effect in April 2017, yet nearly two-thirds (59%) of adults are not aware of any changes according to Future Thinking, the business intelligence research consultancy, and Toluna.
The results were taken from a survey carried out between 11 to 19 May, analysing responses from over 2300 respondents across the UK. Respondents were asked what upcoming amendments they were aware of around the Vehicle Excise Duty (Car Tax), which changes format in April 2017.
According to the research 13% were aware of the changes but didn’t know what they were. Whilst 15% were aware that zero emission cars pay no tax, detailed awareness and knowledge amongst consumers is limited.
Other key findings from the research include:
Only 8% aware of new standard flat rate of £140 per year after the first year
Only 4% are aware that premium cars pay an additional £310 each year
Additionally, 5% erroneously believe that cars with emissions lower than 100 (g/km) pay an additional £10 per year while 4% erroneously believe that cars with emissions higher than 100 (g/km) pay an additional £100 per year.
Lisa Bedwell, Senior Research Director at Future Thinking said, “With less than 12 months until the new road tax changes come in to effect there is still a clear lack of awareness amongst consumers.
“Going forwards one would expect the Government to highlight to consumers the need to be mindful of the implications that higher emission levels will have, or consumers will face some unexpected additional costs once these are introduced.”
