The UK government has announced it will consult with the motor industry on how to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. The previous Conservative government had extended the deadline to 2035, but Labour pledged to reinstate the original target in its election manifesto. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is now seeking expert input to clarify the plan and ensure its implementation.
Industry leaders have expressed concerns that drivers are not adopting electric vehicles (EVs) quickly enough due to high costs and insufficient charging infrastructure. Ford has criticized the government’s mandate requiring increased EV production, citing inadequate consumer demand. Lisa Brankin, Ford UK’s managing director, called for government-backed incentives to accelerate EV adoption.
The Department for Transport stated the consultation aims to provide clarity for manufacturers and the charging sector, encouraging long-term investment and growth in the UK automotive industry. Despite this, some consumers remain hesitant. London resident Kaylan Evans cited high costs and unreliable charging infrastructure, while another resident, Angelina, raised concerns about charging logistics and electricity costs for those living in flats.
The government is working to expand the UK’s charging network, which currently includes over 72,000 public charging points, with 100,000 more planned. However, analysts warn that addressing rural infrastructure gaps and private parking issues will take years, thus affecting motor industry.
EV costs remain a significant barrier, though the government noted that one in four cars sold in the UK is electric, with many used EVs now priced under £20,000. Edmund King, president of the AA, welcomed the motor industry consultation, saying it would provide clarity and confidence for drivers and manufacturers.
The consultation includes updates to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which sets annual sales targets for zero-emission cars and vans, with fines for non-compliance. Manufacturers can trade credits to meet quotas. Colin Walker of the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit highlighted that some companies, like BMW and Hyundai, are already exceeding targets, proving higher ambitions are achievable.
The eight-week consultation will explore which vehicles, such as hybrids, can be sold alongside zero-emission models after 2030. More than two-thirds of UK car manufacturers, including Stellantis, are committed to full electrification by 2030. However, meeting EV targets has led to job cuts and declining production, with October 2024 figures showing a 15% drop in output and a one-third decline in EV production.
Alexander emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of the clean energy transition, while industry leaders like Dan Caesar of Electric Vehicles UK saw the roadmap as an opportunity to strengthen the UK’s position in the global EV market.
