From 2009, the structure of vehicle tax in Northern Ireland will be reformed to reward drivers of more fuel efficient cars and encourage consumers to consider environmental performance when buying a new car.
The new changes which were announced in the Budget mean new tax bands will be introduced and vehicles will be reclassified according to the levels of carbon dioxide they emit.
Charges were also introduced for new cars. Larger vehicles which emit high levels of carbon dioxide will be liable for a higher rate of road tax in their first year, while the lowest-polluting cars will pay no road tax in the first year. The new charges which are commonly referred to as “Showroom Tax” are expected to take affect from April 2010.
The new initiative is part of the Government's commitment to reducing carbon emissions. It is advisable for anyone considering moving to Northern Ireland to contact Driver and Vehicle licencing at www.dvani.gov.uk
for further information.
