Hyundai challenges government on latest RUC

04 July 2008
Immediate release

Hyundai challenges government on latest RUC

Philip Eustace, Executive Director Hyundai Motors New Zealand was outspoken today against the latest Road User Charges rise.

“What we would like to know is how does the government justify the charge increase when fuel costs have dramatically increased over the last six to 12 months?” Says Mr Eustace.

“On the one hand they are trying to promote the use of small and medium diesel segment cars, yet with this latest increase in RUC and the rising cost of diesel it’s making a joke of their strategy.”

He went on to say, “As far as the 15% rise on trucks goes, that cost will be passed on to the public by all transport providers. This will eventually be passed on to all goods and is ultimately putting yet more financial pressure on New Zealand families.”

“We need to see leadership from the government and this type of senseless increase in charges to consumers is not what these tough times are calling for.”

“Given that diesel cars have around 30 percent better fuel efficiency, this could be seen as cynical action to ensure there is no loss in tax revenue given the tremendous growth in diesel passenger car sales.”

“Ultimately, we believe it is the right time to address the tax collection via RUC’s and perhaps a full review is warranted, with the road tax instead being collected at the pump like petrol is.”

ENDS

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