Car Tax Changes April 2026: What You Need to Know

New car tax rules from April 2026 affect electric vehicles and high-value cars. Here's what's changing, who pays more, and how to check your vehicle.

Car Tax Changes April 2026

From April 2025, electric vehicles lost their £0 tax exemption for the first time. In 2026, the standard rate applies to all vehicles equally, including EVs.

Key changes

• Electric vehicles now pay the standard rate of £190/year (previously exempt)
• Expensive car supplement continues: cars with a list price over £40,000 pay an extra £410/year for 5 years
• First-year rates still vary by CO2 emissions — but zero-emission EVs pay the lowest first-year rate of £10
• Inflation adjustment: Several band thresholds may increase in line with RPI

Who's affected most?

EV owners see the biggest change. A Tesla Model 3, previously paying £0, now costs £190/year. If it was over £40,000 new, that rises to £600/year until 2030.

How to check what you'll pay

Don't wait for a surprise in the post. Enter your reg and see your exact annual cost instantly.

Check your 2026 car tax cost — free

Planning ahead

If you're buying a used EV, factor tax into your running costs. At £190/year, it's still cheaper than most petrol equivalents — but it's no longer free.