Act now to beat clean car fees

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) is recommending members register vehicles that will attract fees under the government’s feebate scheme before it kicks in from April 1.

It notes all cars, SUVs, vans and four-wheel-drives with a gross mass of less than 3,500kg and that emit 190g or more of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilometre will face a fee at registration under the clean car discount.

The email alert sent out by VIA on January 26 adds that any fees must be paid by the purchaser of the vehicle.

“We suggest that you check all your stock on the Rightcar website to identify vehicles you have on the yard that will attract a fee and register them between now and 31 March, otherwise you will not be competitive in the market place,” it explains.

“VIA is aware the Rightcar data is not as comprehensive as it could be. We are working with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to ensure that better data is available and to develop processes to challenge the ‘official’ data.”

The alert says customers purchasing vehicles with a safety rating of three stars or more, according to Rightcar, and emitting less than 140gCO2/km will be able to claim a rebate from April 1.

This will be done in a manner similar to how electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) purchasers have been claiming discounts since July last year, “albeit with lesser rebates”.

VIA adds the 140gCO2/km threshold is set to reduce each year under the government’s plans.

For any questions, contact VIA on 0800-842-842 or email info@via.org.nz.