The DVLA has taken action against more than 120,000 vehicles across the North of England and the Midlands last year, which were found to be untaxed.
The crackdown forms part of a wider DVLA campaign to target the number of untaxed vehicles still present on UK roads, with the authority taking more serious steps to stop breaches.
Enforcement measures included fines and wheel clamping for non-compliant vehicles, as well as seizing and removing vehicles from roads.
The measures were conducted by NSL operators on behalf of the DVLA, which used devolved powers to remove untaxed vehicles from UK roads.
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Drivers of seized vehicles have to pay hefty release fees to have their vehicle returned to them
DVLA
NSL operates a network of vehicle pounds, including facilities in Widnes and West Bromwich, which store impounded vehicles until owners pay for their release.
During a recent visit to the Widnes pound, Enforcement Manager Paul Davies showcased the facility and NSL's fleet of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) vehicles.
The vehicles have been fitted with roof-mounted cameras that rapidly scan registration plates, which can help spot untaxed cars on UK roads.
The vehicle storage area contained an eclectic collection of impounded vehicles, which ranged from a 1984 mobile library converted into a camper van to a 90s Subaru Impreza with rally stickers. Luxury brands including Mercedes, BMW and Audi were also impounded for tax evasion.
During a recent patrol in West Bromwich, DVLA officersdemonstrated how the ANPR system works in real time. While most vehicles in the town were properly taxed, the technology quickly identified an untaxed pick-up truck at an industrial estate.
In another operation, officers clamped an untaxed van attempting to "park and hide" down a side street. The vehicle was secured within 60 seconds, requiring the owner to tax it and pay a release fee.
Meanwhile, in Warrington, a 20-year-old untaxed Mini was removed from a residential street using a low loader lorry. Despite being in good condition, the abandoned vehicle was taken to the pound.
According to the DVLA, wheel clamping comes with mandatory fees that quickly add up for vehicle owners.A £100 clamp release fee must also be paid within the first 24 hours.
If the vehicle is removed, a £200 impound release fee applies, in addition to storage costs of £21 per day. A surety fee is also payable if the vehicle remains untaxed upon release, with the rate varying depending on the vehicle type.
This includes £160 for motorcycles and light vehicles, £330 for buses and goods vehicles, and £700 for exceptional loads. Vehicles left unclaimed for between seven to 14 days may be auctioned, "broken up or crushed", the DVLA stated.
The DVLA blog said: "While more than 98 per cent of vehicles on UK roads are taxed correctly, a small minority continue to break the law which costs HM Treasury millions of pounds every year – vital funds which would otherwise go towards public services.
"It’s never been easier for motorists to tax their vehicles and there are a number of ways to do so, from using our 24/7 online service to spreading the cost with Direct Debit options.
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The DVLA enforced against more than 120,000 vehicles last year
DVLA
"So remember, it’s important to make sure you tax your vehicle before using it on the road. It’s quick, easy and guarantees your vehicle avoids any yellow accessories or vehicle pound adventures! Tax it, don’t risk it."
