The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) is calling on drivers and fleet operators to formally oppose the government's proposed new tax on electric vehicles (EVs). The call to action follows the announcement of a consultation on a new 'pence-per-mile' charge, known as eVED, set at a rate of 3p.
Industry leaders question timing and logic
Paul Hollick, chair of the AFP, stated that while fleets understand Chancellor Rachel Reeves needs to address the loss of fuel duty revenue, the proposed solution is flawed. The timing of the new charge is "highly questionable," he argued, coming at a point when EV acceptance is growing but remains uneven.
"Adding to costs before electric cars become the norm, especially with a new form of taxation, is a very risky move," Hollick warned. He expressed scepticism that a continued electric car grant would offset the negative impact, particularly on the crucial used EV market where fleets are already concerned about residual values.
Practical problems and privacy concerns
Hollick criticised the proposed mechanism for the tax, describing it as a "hotch-potch" that is neither a true pay-on-use model nor simple retrospective charging. He highlighted significant practical issues, noting that most fleet cars are under three years old and therefore do not visit MOT stations, where mileage would be recorded.
"This will mean lost work time and unnecessary disruption," he explained, adding that it contradicts the consultation's aim of minimising administrative burden. The obvious technological alternative of journey tracking was also dismissed due to the inevitable questions over privacy and civil liberties, as well as the significant cost of hardware or software for data collection.
A call to engage in the consultation
The core message from the AFP is a direct urging for fleet managers and drivers to participate in the government's consultation process. The association believes the current proposal, unveiled by the Labour Party government in December 2025, poses a substantial threat to the steady progress of electrification in both the fleet and private sectors.
With the consultation now open, the AFP is mobilising its members to voice their opposition to a policy it views as poorly conceived and potentially damaging to the UK's transition to cleaner transport.
