EVA England has launched a major national survey calling for drivers’ views on eVED taxation plans as it also announces the appointment of Natasha Robinson, the former head of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, to its board.

The new survey calls for input from drivers to help shape the proposed EV pay-per-mile and the future public charging network.

The association of drivers wants views on the Government’s eVED scheme plans and the state of the UK’s charging infrastructure as it warns that, too often, drivers risk becoming a ‘forgotten voice’ in debates dominated by manufacturers, energy companies and infrastructure providers.

The survey invites drivers of electric, hybrid, petrol and diesel vehicles to share their views on the proposed mileage-based charging, how it might affect future vehicle choices and their experiences of using the public charging network – including costs, reliability and access.

The research seeks to ensure that any upcoming reforms are grounded in real-world experience – from whether these reforms affect drivers appetite for going electric, to how mileage might be recorded and paid for, and whether public charging is fair, reliable and accessible.

Alongside the survey launch, EVA England has appointed Natasha Robinson to its board.

The former joint head of OZEV, Robinson is a lead expert in transport decarbonisation and road pricing policy, bringing new depth of expertise to the organisation’s leadership.

Robinson said: “Whatever happens as we move towards new ways of paying for our roads, it’s essential that policies such as pay-per-mile are designed sensibly and fairly, with drivers at their heart.

“Too often, decisions are made without fully understanding how they will affect people’s daily lives. This survey is a vital opportunity for drivers to make their voices heard and help shape a system that genuinely works for them.”

Vicky Edmonds, chief executive of EVA England, said: “This survey is about making sure policymakers hear directly from the people who will be most affected. We’re asking drivers to tell us honestly what’s working, what isn’t, and what would make these new systems fair and practical in real life.”

Edmonds, who is also a former senior civil servant and was at the forefront of government net zero and transport policy for nearly two decades, additionally welcomed Robinson to the EVA England board.

“Her expertise on electrification and road pricing and her commitment to putting drivers first will be a huge asset as we respond to these consultations and continue our advocacy work.”

EVA England’s eVED survey is online here. The organisation will share the results with policymakers, industry stakeholders and the wider public. The findings will also inform EVA England’s formal response to the Government’s consultation on eVED and its engagement with the Public Charging Review, which was announced in the Autumn Budget and opens this quarter.