As a driver, knowing how recent rule changes could impact is essential. And, with the release of the highly anticipated (or perhaps dreaded) Autumn Statement, several changes are now in place.
As such, knowing what the Autumn statement means for you as a driver is critical. And we’ve outlined some of the main things you need to know in today’s guide to help prepare you.
Was the Autumn Statement Good for Drivers?
Before we delve into the individual changes, we should first ask: was the statement good? Or did it spell doom and gloom for a lot of car drivers? Well, unfortunately, the changes will mostly be a net negative for most owners. However, those using salary-sacrifice and company car EV schemes may see the best value overall.
The Main Changes to Be Aware Of
There are several pivotal changes that drivers should be aware of following the Autumn Budget 2025. Perhaps the most significant of these include the following:
- Following the removal of the EV VED exemption in April 2025, tax on EV’s is now due to increase. After the first year, electrics will be the same charge as petrol, diesel, and hybrids. Check your car tax status and vehicle history for free using Full Car Checks.
- Fuel duty stays frozen until September 2026, but fuel duty will increase from April 2027.
- The expensive car supplement threshold increases to £50,000, which is £10,000 than diesel, petrol, and hybrid models.
- A pay-per-mile system is due to come in for electrics that charges for every mile driven at 1.5p/mile for hybrids and 3p/mile for electrics.
- Premium brands removed from the Motability Scheme.
- Requirement for Motability to push for 50% UK-built cars by 2035.
- Additional funding is available for the Electric Car Grant until at least 2029.
- Investment in EV charging infrastructure is planned to increase, particularly for less-supported rural communities.
- Benefit-in-Kind rates remain stable on electric company cars.
What Does This Mean for Me?
Altogether, there are several changes that definitely seem somewhat positive, such as the additional grant funding and new charging points. However, on the whole, these Autumn Statement changes mean that running a car will cost more. Moreover, EVs are likely to be far less beneficial than they used to be compared to petrol, diesel, and hybrid models.
With that being said, while the cost of running a car will likely increase, it’s not all bad. Critically, for electric car drivers, additional investment in charging infrastructure will almost certainly be met with excitement. Furthermore, for those who still have a company car, the blows may be somewhat less jarring.
Nevertheless, every car driver is likely to be impacted by the changes, in particular the pay-per-mile system and the fuel duty increases. As such, it’s critical for drivers to be aware of these alterations and make plans in advance.
Fortunately, if you’re planning to change to a new car on the back of these changes, there’s one nasty surprise you can avoid! By running a number plate check, you can ensure your chosen vehicle is safe and secure, without any nasty baggage. That’s one less thing to worry about, at least!
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