New e-toll system explained

He stated that, to ensure the e-toll system is equitable, affordable, sustainable and more efficient, Cabinet has approved the following major improvements:

• A single, reduced tariff will apply to all motorists. The current standard tariff of 58c per km for light motor vehicles (LMV) will be reduced to 30c per km, with or without an e-tag.

• The monthly cap has been dramatically reduced. Users of light motor vehicles who are directly registered with Sanral will not pay more than R225 a month, half the current monthly cap of R450 a month.

• There will be no charge for infrequent users who make less than 30 gantry passes a year. If a user exceeds 30 gantry passes in a 12-month period, they will be liable for the usual charges.

• E-toll fees that are currently outstanding will be discounted by 60%. Users will have six months to settle the debt.

• There will be a monthly cap for accounts in arrears. All users who do not pay tolls within the required 30 days will be obliged to pay double the toll tariff.

• In the case of LMV, the monthly cap for accounts in arrears will be R450.

• Settlement of e-toll fees will be linked to licence renewal.

To simplify the process and ensure better integration of road management systems, motorists will need to settle any outstanding e-toll fees before vehicle licence discs are issued.

“This will make it easier for vehicle owners to get into the e-toll system,” says Ramaphosa.

Measures will be progressively implemented over the next year to enable motorists to get into the e-tolls system at Sanral kiosks, Post Offices, provincial licensing offices, retailers, vehicle dealerships and online at www.sanral.co.za/e-toll/