ITS (UK): Shift to emissions free vehicles will make road network funding unsustainable

Shortfalls in fuel tax caused by moving to emissions-free vehicles will make current ways of funding road networks unsustainable, according to a joint forum between ITS (UK) Road User Charging Interest Group and ITS Ireland hosted by Aecom, Dublin. The group consisted of policy makers, toll operators, payment providers and highway users from seven European countries.
November 30, 2017 Read time: 2 mins
Shortfalls in fuel tax caused by moving to emissions-free vehicles will make current ways of funding road networks unsustainable, according to a joint forum between ITS (UK) Road User Charging Interest Group and 7075 ITS Ireland hosted by 3525 Aecom, Dublin. The group consisted of policy makers, toll operators, payment providers and highway users from seven European countries.


The forum discussed how declining revenues must be bridged by fair and equitable measures to fund increased demands for mobility and that different taxation models are required for the public to buy into needed change. In addition, plans need to be simply expressed and clearly communicated while tackling the complexities of gaps in infrastructure funding, toxic emissions and climate change.

Speakers pointed to a recent study by the UK National Infrastructure Commission which claimed that distance based charging and congestion measures would bring more reliable journeys and improve national productivity.

Public-private co-operation was also addressed by the group who highlighted a need to share information so that disruptive market developments can be integrated alongside legacy schemes to deliver timely mobility improvements while countering the risk of unintended negative consequences.

Keith Mortimer, chair of the Road User Charging Group said, “Environmental objectives make emissions-free driving essential, but the demand for mobility will only increase. The transition to road pricing is under way, offering positive outcomes that respect the legitimate aspirations of all stakeholders. Effective governance will capitalise on innovation to enhance economic performance and social well-being.”

Jennie Martin, ITS (UK) secretary general, added: “Working together, our specialists have identified key challenges facing transport and offered solutions and advice to help policy makers justify the necessary changes. Once again our collective expertise has helped tackle a difficult issue giving leadership to the industry.”

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Tolling is the 21st century’s road funding solution
    June 5, 2015
    HNTB’s Rick Herrington and Brad Guilmino put the case for tolling. Tolling is becoming the 21st century solution of choice for generating additional user-based transportation revenue. The proven funding source is being seriously considered for expanded use by cities, states and even the federal government with support from elected officials across the political spectrum. In fact, with each federal transportation reauthorisation, tolling restrictions have been relaxed.
    Read More
  • Association makes big plans for ITS World Congress
    August 14, 2015
    ITS (UK) has revealed details of a UK pavilion stand which it will host alongside Foundation Member the Transport Systems Catapult at the 2015 ITS World Congress in Bordeaux later this year. The stand – to be located in the exhibition area – will provide a base for the large UK delegation at the congress and is likely to attract an international crowd of visitors. The stand is supported by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) as well as UK Trade and Investment (UKTI). It is hoped th
    Read More
  • The downside of driverless vehicles
    October 27, 2016
    Driverless cars will have a detrimental effect on congestion and security while the road safety benefits can be achieved sooner and cheaper using ADAS, argues Colin Sowman. Many Governments are consulting about the introduction of driverless vehicles and even running trials. As 70% or 80% of crashes are caused by human error, the promise of a crash-free future of driverless, self-driving or autonomous vehicles (call them what you will) is alluring, as are the claims of reduced congestion and lower emissions
    Read More
  • Transportation’s electrifying future
    August 1, 2023
    Climbing out of our silos will be vital to create the frameworks and networks needed to decarbonise transport, if we are serious about mitigating climate change, says Colin Sowman
    Read More

Highlighted Content