€428 billion in taxes generated by motor vehicles in EU-15, new figures show

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) published this data in the 2019 edition of its Tax Guide. This annual report contains the latest information about taxes on vehicle acquisition (VAT, sales tax, registration tax), vehicle ownership (annual circulation tax, road tax) and motoring (fuel tax) in the European Union and other key markets around the world.

The 2019 report shows major differences in tax levels across the EU. Regarding the basis of taxation, some member states still tax cars on their power, price, weight, cylinder capacity or a combination of these factors. Increasingly, however, countries are applying CO2-based taxation. According to the new Guide, 21 EU member states now tax motor vehicles based on their CO2 emission levels.

Incentives for electrically-chargeable cars are available in 24 out of the 28 EU states now, the ACEA Tax Guide shows, although the nature and monetary value of these benefits varies widely. Indeed, while most countries grant tax reductions or exemptions for electric cars, only 12 EU member states offer bonus payments or premiums to buyers of these vehicles.

“Tax measures are a crucial tool in shaping consumer demand for zero- and low-emission vehicles,” explained ACEA Secretary General, Erik Jonnaert. “Given that the affordability of electric cars is still a major barrier to their wider market uptake, Europe’s auto manufacturers strongly encourage the 28 national governments to put in place meaningful incentive schemes.”