Clean car discount advice

Dealers have been advised by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency about how they can access a range of online information providing key details about the full clean car discount scheme.

The feebate was introduced from April 1 after legislation was enacted by royal assent in February and the rules and regulations signed off last month.

In an email to members of the automotive industry, the agency highlights how rebates and fees will be applied to new and used light vehicles the first time they’re registered in New Zealand, based on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. 

“The higher the CO2 emissions, the greater the fee in recognition of the increased environmental and economic costs they are imposing,” it adds.

“Buyers choosing zero or low-emission vehicles may be eligible for a rebate. The lower the emissions the greater the rebate. Vehicles with moderate emissions will not incur a fee or be eligible for a rebate.”

It notes eligible vehicles with a CO2 emissions value of 192gCO2/km or more will incur a fee that is payable at registration, while those with a 146gCO2/km or less may be eligible for a rebate.

For electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) registered up to March 31, online rebate applications will still be accepted until May 31.

The agency says detailed information about the legislation and its subsequent rules have been published online and include the Land Transport (Clean Vehicles) Amendment Bill, the new Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Efficiency and Emissions Data 2022 Rule, and the Land Transport (Clean Vehicle Discount Scheme Charges) Regulations 2022.

It also advises dealers that customers can find information about a vehicle’s estimated emissions, fees and rebate through the Rightcar website.