To date, over 107,000 people have signed the petition - available here - "against the expected increase in IUC for cars prior to 07-2007".

"The purpose of this petition is to present an alternative suggestion, which we believe to be fairer and more coherent. Electric vehicles are currently exempt from paying IUC, as part of an effort to promote the energy transition. We recognise the importance of this transition, but we consider that should not serve as a pretext for all fiscal measures".

Therefore, those responsible for the petition propose that "electric vehicles start paying the IUC according to the power of their engines, eliminating the current exemption, and that they are not subject to the additional carbon tax that is applied to combustion vehicles".

"We believe this is the fairest and most equitable measure, which will not harm those who face significant financial difficulties and who do not even use these same highways. Often, these people are not seeking subsidies, they simply wish not to be further burdened by disproportionate tax burdens".

According to the report accompanying the OE2024 proposal, vehicles registered up to 2007 in "category A and E" will be covered.

Contacted by Notícias ao Minuto, a source from the Tax Authority (AT) clarified that, "according to the Single Circulation Tax Code, vehicles whose first registration date is before 1981 are not subject to IUC".

This means that the IUC will be increased for cars registered between 1981 and 2007.

Related article: Car tax to be upped to pay for toll reductions