Experts are calling on the Government to introduce major changes at the Spring Budget to help motorists save money and help boost the automotive industry.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will outline the Government’s financial plans for the new year on March 6 with drivers eagerly awaiting what changes could be made.
There are hopes that the Chancellor will provide clarity on a number of issues including car tax, fuel duty and extra funding for potholes.
One motoring organisation, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has submitted a list of recommendations to HM Treasury.
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Many drivers will be keen to see changes made in the 2024 Spring Budget
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The group is calling on the Government to act in certain areas, namely to maintain zero emission vehicle (ZEV) affordability, to stabilise the consumer ZEV market and unlock the commercial vehicle transition.
With the introduction of the ZEV mandate earlier this month, it is hoped that the price of electric cars will fall, allowing more drivers to access zero emission vehicles.
Manufacturers will need to ensure that at least 22 per cent of cars sold are zero emission under the new measures.
This target number will continue to increase over the coming years, reaching a threshold of 80 per cent at the end of the decade and a 100 per cent target in 2035.
The BVRLA has called on the Government to ensure fleet vehicles like vans and trucks are also included in the ZEV mandate or it could have a huge impact on businesses.
A statement on their website read: “As 2024 is the first year of the ZEV sales mandate, it is critical that demand is not forgotten, with greater consideration required for vans and used electric cars.
“The BVRLA’s Representation echoes sentiments featured in the Future of Fleets Manifesto 2024 launched at the end of last year.
“The Manifesto lists the key actions the Government needs to take over the next few years to maintain the trajectory towards mass ZEV adoption.”
The BVRLA is calling on its members with a vested interest in the changes to join the Tax Working Group for more information.
It also suggested that motorists support the association’s engagement with MPs through the Industry Champions programme.
The aim of this scheme is to ensure all MPs think about fleets and support the industry through legislation and other vital measures.
Fleets and individual drivers are able to make use of the existing Government plug-in grant available to wheelchair accessible vehicles, motorcycles and mopeds, vans, trucks and taxis.
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The ZEV mandate was introduced earlier this year
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For a small van, drivers can receive a maximum discount of £2,500 with a number of popular brands included in the offer, including Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, Toyota and Vauxhall.
Large vans weighing between 2,500kg and 4,250kg can attract a discount of £5,000y, with eligibility rules requiring the vehicle to have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km and be able to travel at least 60 miles without any emissions.
