The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations in the UK.

It supports the interests of the UK automotive industry at home and abroad, promoting the industry to government, stakeholders and the media.

With regards to the Autumn statement from the Government yesterday, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said, “We recognise that all vehicle owners should pay their fair share of tax, however, the measures announced today mean electric car and van buyers and current owners will face a significant uplift in VED (Vehicle excise duty). The sting in the tail is the VED supplement which will unduly penalise these new, more expensive vehicle technologies. The introduction of taxes should support road transport decarbonisation, and the delivery of net zero, rather than threaten both the new and second-hand EV markets.

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“With a ZEV (zero-emission vehicle) mandate on the way for car and van manufacturers, we need a framework that encourages consumers and businesses to buy electric vehicles. We look forward to working with government on how to transition the market and ensure the tax framework on road users supports this objective.”

Electric Road fully supports the SMMT in their statement.