GroenLinks-PvdA is targeting private cars

Recently, statements by the climate advisor to the outgoing government caused quite a stir. According to him, the importance of private cars should be looked at and a future with less car ownership is actually better. The current government probably cannot do much with that view, but if Groenlinks-PvdA comes into the next government, it will probably adopt his advice. The joint faction, which according to polls will potentially be one of the three largest factions, is also targeting the private car in its election manifesto.

Private car further away from the street scene

GroenLinks-PvdA wants the car to play a smaller role in the mobility issue. “More emphasis on walking, cycling, public transport and shared mobility and less on the use of private cars is essential.” How does one envision that? “In addition to (…) making better use of existing public transport connections, we are committed to smarter transport and shared mobility. In traffic, pedestrians and cyclists are given priority over cars. We invest in (fast) cycle paths in the interior and exterior areas, sufficient bicycle parking facilities (including at stations) and national regulations are being adjusted to ban (moped) scooters from the cycle path within built-up areas.” According to GroenLinks-PvdA, there is an additional advantage if there are fewer private cars: “A significant part of the public space taken up by private cars can be better used for, for example, additional homes, parks and squares or facilities.”

If you continue to drive a car, you will be faced with different costs than now, if it were up to GroenLinks-PvdA. The plan is to introduce road pricing, which has been set on the horizon by the current government for 2030, earlier. “We are accelerating the introduction of pay-per-use for motorists, so that the polluter pays.” In addition, they want to make a distinction between regions where public transport is a good alternative and where this is not yet the case: “It is fairer to charge a lower rate in regions where people are dependent on the car because public transport is not a good alternative.” We also differentiate according to time.” To further encourage the use of public transport, GL-PvdA wants employers to make a distinction when it comes to travel expense reimbursement: “In addition to the maximum travel expense allowance, there will also be a minimum travel expense allowance that employees are entitled to. Travel costs with public transport are fully paid by the employer. “

Only new electric cars by 2030

Finally, the joint faction has a clear vision on the electric vehicle fleet in the Netherlands. That has to grow faster. At least, at least the percentage of electric cars. “In anticipation of the European ban on the sale of cars with a combustion engine in 2035, we will use fiscal and other measures to ensure that only electric vehicles will be sold in the Netherlands from 2030, including mopeds and scooters. The leasing sector will start in 2025 switch to 100% electric cars. From now on, tax schemes for electric driving are only aimed at low and middle incomes.”