When it comes to the way to work or everyday errands, the car is indispensable for many Upper Austrians. Taxes increase vehicle costs. Read more about this in the fourth part of our “Let’s Talk About Money” series.
Traffic jam on the western motorway; Delays from Puchenau; There is heavy traffic on the B3 federal road in the direction of the Steyregger Bridge – commuters have had to get used to reports like this. Drivers lose 24 minutes every day in Linz because they are stuck in a traffic jam. A study by TomTom says an average of 93 hours are wasted each year.
“Just switch to public transport” is advice to those who mourn the lost time. Nevertheless, for many Upper Austrians there is no alternative to the car. An expensive undertaking: tolls, fuel, depreciation – with a compact petrol model that has been used for six years and an annual mileage of 15,000 kilometers, the monthly costs amount to 550 euros, damage is not yet included.
Used cars more expensive
The fact that the manufacturers’ new car production has stalled due to the lack of electronic parts caused prices for used cars to rise. “Because fewer goods are coming,” says Adolf Seifried, chairman of the vehicle trade in the Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce.
The fact is: if you forego a few horsepower in your car, you save your wallet. “Kilowatt-strong cars have a high tax burden due to the motor-related insurance tax,” says Othmar Nagl, General Director of Upper Austria Insurance. Please note: From January 1, 2022, when many new cars are registered, an increased standard consumption tax, or NoVA for short, will be due.