A bipartisan legislative proposal in the United States, called BUILD America 250, plans to apply an annual tax of about 130 euros to drivers of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The goal is to raise funds to repair roads, bridges, and railways, since these vehicles do not pay gasoline taxes, the main source of revenue for infrastructure.
Collection technology and connected vehicles 🚗
The collection system could rely on telemetry and mileage tracking technologies, similar to those used in electronic tolls. Automakers already integrate connectivity modules into their electric models, which would facilitate the implementation of a distance traveled record. However, questions arise about data privacy and the technical complexity of differentiating between electric and combustion driving in hybrids.
The toll of being eco-friendly 🛣️
So it turns out that saving the planet has an extra cost, and it's not just the price of the charger. Electric vehicle drivers, who already pay for electricity, could now pay an annual toll for not using gasoline. It's like the government charging you for not smoking, but in an automotive version. Good thing clean air is free to breathe, because the roads aren't anymore.