Budget has implications for Mayo motorists

Budget 2022, announced this afternoon, has been described as a 'mixed bag' for the motorist and the motor industry by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).

The budget contains a number of measures specific to motoring. From January, a revised vehicle registration tax table is being introduced. The 20-band table will remain but with an uplift in rates, beginning with a 1% increase for vehicles that fall between bands 9-12, 2% for bands 13-15, and then a 4% increase for bands 16-20.

The €5,000 relief for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is being extended to end 2023, while the Business in Kind (BIK) exemption for BEVs will be extended out to 2025 with a tapering effect on the vehicle value. This measure will take effect from 2023.

For BIK purposes, the original market value of an electric vehicle will be reduced by €35,000 for 2023; €20,000 for 2024; and €10,000 for 2025.

The Accelerated Capital Allowance scheme is being extended and amended to include hydrogen fuel vehicles and refuelling equipment.

Commenting on Budget 2022, SIMI director general Brian Cooke said: “Budget 2022 is a mixed bag for the motor industry and the motorist. The increases in VRT on the back of Covid-19, Brexit, increased fuel taxes and the dramatic VRT changes in last year’s budget are hugely disappointing. These increases only add to the already heavy tax burden on new cars, and will serve to slow down the renewal of the fleet, acting as a barrier to reducing emissions.”

But SIMI has welcomed the continuation of VRT relief for electric vehicles out to 2023. “This brings a degree of certainty to both consumers and the industry on the vital electric vehicle project and will help increase EV sales over the next two years,” said Mr. Cooke.

He added: “The 0% Benefit in Kind has proved a real success in encouraging EV sales and while its extension is positive, the tapering of this relief is too early and should not commence until after 2025.”