"Academic now...but you’d have thought that being a member of the EU would mean that a vehicle from anywhere in the EU could be used anywhere in the EU by any EU citizen...? Freedom of movement of good plus freedom of movement of people ought to have made that possible...!"
"In what circumstance was the Stuttgart registered Porsche being driven? Was it Chris Harris's own car?"
"Are we saying that if my BiL who divides his time between France and RoI came over in his French registered but RHD Berlingo I couldn't drive it?"
I am assuming the electric Porsche was a 'demonstrator' doing the rounds from Porsche in Stuttgart for the benefit of Top Gear and other forms of journalism. Hence Chris Harris having the opportunity to test the vehicle for the programme on UK roads.
As regards the total freedom of movement of people and cars there is still compromise working in the background. Different countries have different taxation rates and rules. As far as I am aware these restrictions apply in European countries as well. So whilst there was freedom of movement in mainland Europe (Schengen - which we opted out of at inception) each country still has its rules and regulations.
The restrictions in use of foreign vehicles is ultimately driven by Customs and Revenue. Imported vehicles should pay the required taxes and Vehicle Excise Duty. The rules and regulations are dictated by C&R. This is supported by the DVLA and Police as a vast amount of foreign registered vehicles are being used illegally. They are difficult to trace, proven more likely to be involved in 'hit and runs' and are capable of avoiding enforcement. Insurance validation is questionable long term if its issued out of the UK.
The term 'resident' and 'residency' is used frequently within the regulations. Simplistically if you live in a country for 185 days or more then you are classed as a resident. That then dictates your obligations as to whether you register the vehicle in that country.
The regulations are quite specific and limited regarding a UK resident driving a foreign registered vehicle so under normal circumstances you shouldn't be driving a foreign registered vehicle. There are some very specific exceptions to these rules that allow a UK resident to drive a foreign car in the UK. (Copied from Kats Gone Global)
The most commonly used exception is for rental vehicles. If you drive a rental vehicle from another country in the UK, you will not be violating any laws as a resident of the UK. This allows UK residents to travel freely. Meaning, a UK resident could fly to France, and return to the UK using a rental car registered in France.
Diplomatic vehicles are also exempt from following the same rules as other vehicles that drive in the UK long term. A diplomatic vehicle is allowed to drive on UK roads with foreign registration without being subjected to the same requirements as other vehicles.
If you work in a country that is part of the EU, you can temporarily use a company vehicle in the UK that is registered in your employer’s country. You also do not need to worry about breaking the law in this case.
So yes I'm saying you cant drive the BiLs Berlingo.
The only issue that has raised its head is for say someone who lives in UK for say 7 months and France for 5 months. They have a French registered and insured vehicle and wish to return to England for a short while. Whilst the regulations are specific there is some common sense applied but the onus is upon them to be able to prove that is there intention.
Last edited by: Fullchat on Wed 12 Feb 20 at 00:11
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