dependable means of transport, a growing number of drivers are shifting to EVs. One primary incentive for choosing an electric vehicle is that they are typically less expensive to operate and fuel compared to conventional gasoline vehicles. However, this could change in Illinois if a new legislation is enacted.
Recently, Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) introduced Senate Bill 3566, which seeks to modify the Illinois Vehicle Code to raise the yearly registration fee for EVs by $320. Should it be approved, this extra cost would take effect on July 1, 2027. Adding this to the $151 that EV owners currently pay each year to renew their registration, the total would amount to $471 … for the initial year. The legislation also allows for the possibility of raising the surcharge, indicating that EV owners might soon find themselves facing over $500 in annual registration fees.
Although the set $320 extra surcharge might not sit well with some drivers, it isn’t entirely compulsory. Kind of. The bill also suggests an alternative fee assessed by the new “Road Usage Charge Program,” which permits EV owners to pay 1.5 cents per mile up to a maximum of $320 instead of the yearly registration fee. However, those choosing this option must meticulously track their travel distance and report their mileage annually. Additionally, similar to the surcharge, the charges from the Road Usage Charge Program will undergo annual adjustments and increases.