Tag: Government Policy

China Adjusts Vehicle Subsidies for 2026: Budget Cars See Smaller Support
News

China Adjusts Vehicle Subsidies for 2026: Budget Cars See Smaller Support

Starting in January, China's vehicle subsidy program will undergo significant changes under the new policy announced by the National Development and Reform Commission. The shift from fixed subsidies to a percentage-based model with caps aims at supporting various price ranges differently.Key TakeawaysNew energy vehicles (NEVs) get 12% subsidy when scrapped, up to ¥20,000; gasoline cars see a cap of ¥15,000 at 10%The trade-in option offers NEV buyers an 8% subsidy with the same maximum limitsOlder vehicles registered before specific dates qualify for subsidies under both scrappage and trade-in policiesNew energy vehicle (NEV) owners who scrap their old rides will receive a higher percentage of support, but budget-friendly models won't benefit as much compared to high-end cars. This adjustme...
Government to Introduce Six-Month Unfair Dismissal Protections in 2027
News

Government to Introduce Six-Month Unfair Dismissal Protections in 2027

The government will introduce enhanced protections against unfair dismissal for workers who have been employed for six months, starting from January 1, 2027. This follows a compromise with business groups after Labour initially planned to scrap the two-year qualifying period.Key TakeawaysThe new protections will begin on January 1, 2027.A six-month qualifying period for unfair dismissal rights is set instead of day one employment.This change still offers shorter protection than the current two-year requirement.Ministers agreed to this adjustment after facing opposition from business groups who argued that eliminating the qualifying period would discourage hiring. The government's decision, while not legally binding, carries significant political weight among MPs and peers.The move follows ...
SMMT Warns Against Pay-per-Mile Tax on EVs
EV & Electric Cars, News

SMMT Warns Against Pay-per-Mile Tax on EVs

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has strongly opposed the potential introduction of a pay-per-mile tax for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, as suggested in Rachel Reeves' recent Budget statement. SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes criticized the timing of such a proposal during a speech at the organization's annual dinner.Hawes argued that introducing a 12p per mile charge on EVs would send a negative message to consumers and could hinder efforts to increase EV adoption, which is crucial for meeting ambitious targets set by manufacturers. The UK government has previously supported EV sales through various incentives such as the zero-emission vehicle grant.The current zero-emission vehicle grant offers discounts of £1,500 or £3,750 depending on eligibility criteria, signific...