New Vehicle Technologies and Social Trends: Implications for Road User Charging

Published on November 3, 2025

Road user charging – such as road tolls – can ensure road users account for the costs their road use imposes on others. RUC also constitutes a means to raise funds and nudge users towards more sustainable transport use. Past ITF work has called for a reform of fuel taxes on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, for the uptake of distance-based charges on electric vehicles (EVs) and for the implementation of congestion charges where relevant.

While these policy directions remain relevant, technological and societal changes such as automated vehicles (AVs), declining and ageing populations, and changes in tolling technologies are set to substantially impact our road systems.

Based on case studies, this report offers further recommendations for authorities to adapt and future-proof road user charging systems.

 

Policy Insights

  • Governments should move to adopt the key recommendations of the ITF’s Decarbonisation and the Pricing of Road Transport report as quickly as possible
  • Adopting distance-based charges, at a minimum for electric vehicles, should be a priority
  • Distance-based charges should be levied on heavy vehicles as a key plank of reform
  • Road user charging policy should be tailored to address the likely congestion and other impacts of automated vehicles, ensuring their dissemination contributes positively to sustainable transport systems
  • Road user charging reforms should be developed via detailed dialogue and consultation between levels of government and between governments and the public
  • Keep sight of the fundamental need to move to a sustainable transport system when designing road user charging reforms
 
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