Fuel duty and potholes top motorists’ Autumn Budget concerns

More than half of UK motorists want the Chancellor to freeze or cut fuel duty in the Autumn Budget, as concerns over vehicle running costs and deteriorating road conditions continue to weigh on drivers, according to new research from Close Brothers Motor Finance.

The survey of 2,001 UK drivers found that 52% want fuel duty on petrol and diesel frozen or reduced in the Budget on 28 October, while 34% are calling for increased funding for local councils to tackle potholes and road repairs.

The findings highlight the financial pressures facing motorists, with nearly three in ten (29%) wanting other vehicle-related taxes and charges frozen or reduced, and 28% calling for a cut to Insurance Premium Tax (IPT).

The research also identified concerns around the affordability of electric vehicles (EVs) and the Government’s transition to zero-emission motoring.

Nearly one in five drivers (17%) want VAT on public EV charging reduced to bring it into line with the lower rate applied to domestic charging.

Meanwhile, the same proportion (17%) would like to see the 2034 zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate delayed or scrapped.

The findings come as the automotive industry continues to navigate the transition to electric vehicles, with manufacturers, retailers and finance providers facing changing consumer demand and regulatory requirements.

The survey also revealed uncertainty about the Government’s approach to motoring policy.

Nearly a third of drivers (31%) believe the current Government will be less supportive of motorists than its predecessor, compared with 23% who anticipate greater support.

A further 39% expect the Government’s approach to remain broadly unchanged.

“Motorists across the UK are looking for decisive action and much-needed relief. Vehicle running costs continue to squeeze drivers at a time when household budgets are already tight, driven by a wider cost of living crisis.

“Combined with persistent frustration over damaged roads and concerns about the important transition to EVs, many drivers are not feeling confident that the new government will deliver for them. For millions of Brits, a car is a cornerstone of everyday life and it is crucial that this budget helps make motoring more accessible and affordable, whilst also providing councils with the resources needed to restore Britain’s roads.”