Kilometre charge for road users

Over the next few years, road users will have to pay a charge for each kilometre they drive. The average charge for a car will rise from 3 euro cents per kilometre in 2012 to 6.7 cents in 2018.

This measure is set out in the bill on the kilometre charge , which the cabinet has approved and will now be submitted to parliament.
Revenue

Road tax and purchase tax on cars and motorcycles will be abolished. Instead, motorists in the Netherlands will pay for each kilometre they travel. This means that motorists will start to pay for using their vehicle rather than for owning it.

The revenue generated will not exceed that from the ‘old’ taxes. In fact, 59% of motorists are expected to pay less under the new system.

The proceeds from the kilometre charge will go directly into the infrastructure fund. This fund will be used to build roads, railways and other types of infrastructure.
Traffic jams and environment

Research shows that road pricing will cut congestion by half. The number of kilometres driven will drop by about 15%. This will benefit the environment, as CO2 and fine particulate emissions will fall by over 10%.
Rates

The fewer emissions motorists create as they become more aware of their driving, the less they will have to pay.

There will be a basic rate for each kilometre. The rate for passenger cars will continue to depend on CO2 emissions. As already mentioned, the average rate will initially be 3 cents/km, rising to 6.7 cents in 2018. These tariffs are based on maximum behavioural effects.

For other vehicles, such as vans, lorries and buses, the weight will continue to determine the basic rate.

The new legislation allows a rush-hour rate to be charged on top of the basic rate.

Cars for the disabled, agricultural tractors, taxis, public transport buses, oldtimers made before 1987 and speed-restricted vehicles will continue to be exempt, as will motorcycles.
Foreign vehicles

An alternative payment system will be set up for foreign vehicles.

Source: Government.nl, 18 November 2009