Draconian black-box devices ‘could be installed in cars’ to raise more tax, despite privacy fears
THE Government should consider introducing black-box recording devices in cars to raise more in taxes, under new plans laid out by the Transport Select Committee.
The location-recording equipment has previously sparked privacy concerns, with the technology able to monitor speed and driving habits.
The Government is set to saddle motorists with the bill for a £35billion tax shortfall as fuel duty revenue declines amid a switch to electric vehicles.
MPs are considering a pay per mile scheme to raise cash and are understood to be in discussions about a new motorist tax.
One way to monitor drivers' routes is to bring in controversial black-boxes, which are more commonly used by young drivers in a bid to keep insurance costs down.
A report from The Transport Select Committee suggests the Government look into how to use "telematics software" to monitor Brits.
David Savage, Vice President UK and Ireland for Geotab, a telematics and tracking firm, says any changes will have “huge cost and environmental benefits”.
But he warns the device could trace a “whole host of data” including the drivers' location and driving habits, according to the .
The devices can track a car's speed, acceleration, braking, and fuel consumption.
Mr Savage said: “[The] Transport Select Committee report shows an innovative alternative approach to our current road tax system.
“Telematics is an often underutilised tool that can reap huge cost and environmental benefits.
“Many UK businesses can already attest to the savings that can be realised by operating a fleet using telematics, and with its widespread introduction, its inherent environmental benefits can also be compounded.
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“The key to telematics is in its simplicity.
“Through the installation of a small telematics device into a vehicle, a whole host of data can be accurately analysed, including location, speed, idling time, harsh braking and acceleration, fuel consumption and much more.
“All of this allows for optimum route planning, predictive vehicle maintenance and insights to enhance driver performance and safety.”
The new report also claims the technology could "change a person's behaviour".
The data recorded could also be used to give tips for better driving behaviour which could potentially lead to lower fees.
However, the report notes that the new technology would affect "high-milage drivers" so further assessments are required.
It reads: "The Government must examine the role that telematic technology can play in delivering a replacement road pricing mechanism that sets the cost of motoring based on the duration and time of the journey and vehicle type and size.
"The Government must assess the potential effect of telematic technology on changing drivers' behaviour and delivering its wider policies on air quality, congestion, public transport and public health.
"Also the Government must assess the potential effect of a road pricing mechanism based on telematic technology on high-mileage drivers, such as road hauliers and those in rural communities, and on those least able to adapt to increased motoring costs."
Drivers have been warned about upcoming costs as the new Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rates come into effect in April 2022.
The tax changes are set to impact petrol and diesel car owners the most.
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The cost of tax varies depending on the make, model, year, and value of your car.
Motorists caught driving without tax face an £80 on the spot fine.