Milton Keynes and the Future of Electric Vehicle Charges: Pay-Per-Mile Scheme Proposed

Milton Keynes, a leader in electric vehicle (EV) adoption with over 23,500 registrations (2022) and the highest number of chargers per head outside London, may soon face changes with a proposed pay-per-mile scheme for EVs.

This proposal, aimed at addressing a projected £10 billion drop in fuel duty revenue by 2030, is gaining attention.

Public transport charity Campaign for Better Transport (CBT) is advocating for the pay-per-mile scheme, suggesting that drivers of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), such as electric cars, should be charged based on how far they travel. CBT claims this approach would have public support, particularly since drivers who own a ZEV before the implementation date would be exempt, incentivising the switch to electric vehicles.

The government currently generates around £25 billion a year from duties levied on petrol, diesel, and other fuels. However, this figure is expected to decrease as more drivers transition from traditionally-fuelled cars to ZEVs, making the need for alternative revenue sources increasingly urgent.

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, has been urged to consider this scheme as a necessary measure to balance the books, with experts noting that "as electric vehicles become more widespread, the Treasury faces a significant challenge in maintaining the tax revenue that fuels generate." This sentiment was echoed by Edmund King, president of the AA, who stated, "A pay-per-mile road pricing scheme could be the fairest way to charge drivers as more and more people go electric."

As the government considers these changes, Milton Keynes residents have the opportunity to share their views through the Get Around MK: an Electric Vehicle Survey. Linked to the government’s Taking Charge: the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure initiative, this survey aims to gather feedback on how local EV infrastructure can best serve the community. The survey will run from 6th September 2023 until March 2024, providing a platform for residents to shape the future of EV usage in the city.

Milton Keynes is already at the forefront of the UK's electric vehicle movement, and these proposed changes could significantly impact local drivers. The survey results and ongoing discussions will be crucial in balancing the need for infrastructure funding with the promotion of green technology, ensuring Milton Keynes continues to lead in sustainable transportation.

Get Around MK: an Electric Vehicle Survey will be live from the 6th September for 6 months until March 2024!