December 2024 brings several UK driving law updates that will impact motorists, including changes to advisory fuel rates, electric vehicle (EV) charging standards, tachograph regulations, and new emission mandates. Here’s everything you need to know about these updates and their significance.
What Are the New Advisory Fuel Rates?
Effective Date: December 1, 2024
The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revised its Advisory Fuel Rates (AFRs), impacting company car users reimbursed for business travel or private fuel usage. These rates, reviewed quarterly, have been updated as follows:
Petrol Vehicles
- Up to 1,400cc: Reduced to 12p per mile
- 1,401cc to 2,000cc: Reduced to 14p per mile
- Over 2,000cc: Reduced to 23p per mile
Diesel Vehicles
- Up to 1,600cc: Reduced to 11p per mile
- 1,601cc to 2,000cc: Reduced to 13p per mile
- Over 2,000cc: Reduced to 17p per mile
LPG and Electric Vehicles
- LPG Engines: Rates remain unchanged (11p to 21p per mile depending on engine size).
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): Stays at 7p per mile.
Why the Update?
These changes reflect the fluctuating fuel costs and aim to provide fair reimbursement for company car drivers.
What Are the Changes to Tachograph Regulations for HGVs?
Key Dates:
- February 21, 2024: New Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) must be fitted with a “smart tachograph 2.”
- December 31, 2024: Existing vehicles undertaking international journeys must retrofit these devices.
What Is a Smart Tachograph?
Smart tachographs record driving hours to ensure compliance with legal work limits. These devices are crucial for international travel, as they enhance transparency and safety.
How Do New EV Charging Standards Impact Drivers?
Effective Date: November 2024 (with rollout through December)
The UK government has implemented stricter rules for EV charging stations. These include:
- 99% Reliability Guarantee: Charge point operators must ensure their stations are operational 99% of the time.
- Contactless Payment: All chargers with a capacity of 8kW and above must offer contactless payment options.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Operators face fines of £10,000 per non-compliant charger.
Impact on EV Drivers:
These regulations aim to build trust in the EV charging infrastructure and facilitate a smoother transition to electric vehicles.
What Is the ZEV Mandate, and How Will It Affect Car Manufacturers?
Key Dates:
- January 1, 2024: Car manufacturers must ensure 22% of car sales and 10% of van sales are fully electric.
- Future Goals:
- 80% of cars sold by 2030 must be electric.
- By 2035, all new cars sold must be zero-emission.
What Happens If Targets Aren’t Met?
Manufacturers failing to meet these quotas will face penalties of £15,000 per car and £9,000 per van.
What Are the Potential Impacts of These Changes?
- For Motorists:
- Lower AFRs mean reduced reimbursements for company car drivers.
- Improved EV charging infrastructure enhances convenience and reliability.
- For Businesses:
- HGV operators must prepare for tachograph upgrades to avoid international travel disruptions.
- Car manufacturers face pressure to accelerate EV production or risk heavy fines.
- For the Environment:
- The ZEV mandate supports the UK’s broader sustainability goals, aiming to reduce emissions significantly.
What’s Next for the UK Driving Law Landscape?
These updates signal the UK government’s commitment to sustainability and modernizing infrastructure. Motorists and businesses must stay informed to adapt effectively.
