This December, a series of significant changes to driving laws and regulations in the UK are coming into effect. These updates address everything from company car fuel rates to new requirements for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). Here’s what you need to know:

1. Advisory Fuel Rates (AFRs)

Effective December 1, HMRC has introduced updated AFRs for company cars:

• Diesel Vehicles: Rates have decreased for all engine sizes:
  • Over 2,000cc: Reduced to 17p per mile (ppm) from 18ppm.
  • 1,601-2,000cc: Reduced to 13ppm from 14ppm.
  • Up to 1,600cc: Reduced to 11ppm from 12ppm.
• Petrol Vehicles: Rates have similarly decreased across the board.
  Employers can use these rates to reimburse employees for business travel fuel costs or require repayment for private fuel usage.

2. New Tachograph Requirements for HGVs

Starting December 31, 2024, all HGVs undertaking international journeys must be retrofitted with a “full” or “transitional” Smart Tachograph 2 if they are currently equipped with analogue or digital tachographs.

• Newly registered in-scope vehicles will also need this technology starting February 21, 2024.

3. £10,000 Fines for Non-Compliant EV Charge Points

EV charge point operators face hefty fines of £10,000 per non-compliant charger under regulations introduced in November.

• New and existing chargers (above 8kW and 50kW, respectively) must offer contactless payment options.
• Charge points must also meet a 99% reliability rate to avoid penalties.

4. Mandatory Contactless Payment and Reliability for EV Chargers

Regulations now require EV charge points to provide contactless payment options for ease of use. Operators must also ensure a reliability rate of 99%, helping to build confidence in the UK’s EV infrastructure.

5. Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate

Starting January 1, 2024:

• Car Manufacturers must ensure that at least 22% of cars sold and 10% of vans sold are fully electric.
• Non-compliance will result in fines of £15,000 per car and £9,000 per van short of the target.
  The government aims to increase these targets over time, aiming to 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

6. Support for Company Car Drivers

Under HMRC’s updated rules, company car drivers and employers can claim or reimburse fuel costs. Input VAT can also be reclaimed if the driver provides a receipt.

Implications for Drivers and Operators

These updates highlight the UK government’s push towards cleaner energy and improved road safety while addressing fuel and infrastructure standards. Stakeholders should ensure compliance to avoid fines and facilitate the transition to sustainable transportation systems.

Ensure you know these changes to stay compliant and avoid potential penalties!

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