As every year at Auto Plus, we briefly summarize the changes that excite motorists and road users for the coming year. But there was a small change in 2024 that eluded us, a rule change that was quietly made at the very end of 2023.
It is about Decree No. 2023-1407 of December 27, 2023, published in the Official Journal, which establishes restoration of eco-tax for heavy trucks. Although the event had been planned since July of that year, it went relatively unnoticed despite its potential impact on the road transport sector.
Vehicles that pollute are fined more
This “eco-fee” now allows local authorities to decide to introduce it on certain roads, at the same time adjusting the prices according to the level of carbon dioxide emissions of the respective vehicles.
Unlike the previous eco-tax, this new version only applies in regions where roads are likely to support significant traffic movements from toll roads or other local toll roads they operate.
The size of the eco-tax will be determined taking into account the level of carbon dioxide emissions by vehicles, their technical characteristics, as well as the nature of the route. An important aspect of the decree is that if the driver, transporter, toll service provider or European electronic tolling service provider cannot confirm the emission class of the vehicle, the maximum charge will apply.
The regions will control this tax
It should be noted that the government gives regions and local authorities the freedom to apply this measure or not, offering some flexibility depending on regional needs and characteristics.
At the moment, only the European Community of Alsace has taken the lead, announcing the introduction of an eco-tax by 2027 under the name R’Pass. This will take into account, in particular, the features of the Lower and Upper Rhine, which border Germany.
It remains to be seen whether other regions will follow in the footsteps of the European Community of Alsace, which could have significant financial implications for many carriers.
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.