Vehicle tax rates apply from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027
The DVLA has issued tax advice to drivers of electric vehicles(Image: Reach)
The DVLA has issued guidance on new vehicle tax for electric, zero and low emission vehicles. As of April 1, drivers of such cars, vans or motorcycles will need to pay the fee. The change applies to both new and existing vehicles.
The amount you’ll need to pay depends on the type of vehicle and when it was registered. It says the following vehicle tax rates apply from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here.
For electric, zero or low emission cars registered on or after April 1, 2025
The DVLA says: “You’ll pay £10 for the first year. After that, you’ll pay the standard rate of £200.”
Electric, zero or low emission cars registered between April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2025
The DVLA says: “You’ll pay the standard rate of £200.”
Electric, zero or low emission cars registered between March 1, 2001 and March 31, 2017
The DVLA says: “You’ll pay the standard rate of £20.”
Hybrid and alternatively fuelled vehicles (AFVs)
The DVLA says: “The £10 annual discount for hybrid and AFVs has been removed. The rate you will pay depends on when the vehicle was first registered. If the vehicle was registered before 1 April 2017 – this rate will depend on the vehicle’s CO2 emissions (check the rates for these vehicles), registered on or after 1 April 2017 – you will pay the standard rate (£200).”
Electric vans
The DVLA says: “Most electric vans have moved to the standard annual rate for light goods vehicles. Check the rates for these vehicles.”
Electric motorcycles
The DVLA says: “Electric motorcycles and tricycles have moved to the annual rate for the smallest engine size. Check the rates for these vehicles.”
Additional rate (expensive car supplement)
The DVLA says: “If you have an electric or zero-emission vehicle registered on or after 1 April 2025 with a list price of more than £50,000, you’ll need to pay the standard rate, or additional rate.
“The additional rate applies for five years, starting from the second year of vehicle tax.”
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