The UK government has initiated a policy review that could substantially reduce its electric vehicle sales requirements for automakers. Currently, manufacturers must meet progressively increasing EV sales targets under the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, beginning at 33% for 2026 and climbing to 80% by 2030. The government is now considering lowering the 2030 target to as low as 50% and will seek public input on the proposal through late October.
Under the potential revisions, if pure electric vehicle sales targets drop to 50%, the remaining vehicle sales could consist of hybrid models rather than purely petrol or diesel vehicles. Alternative proposals include maintaining the 80% EV target but extending the compliance deadline to 2034. An outright ban on selling new petrol and diesel cars beyond 2030 would remain unchanged. The government has indicated it plans to phase out new hybrid sales by 2035.
Car industry representatives have pushed for the policy adjustment, asserting that existing demand for electric vehicles remains insufficient to meet current targets and that compliance costs are excessive for manufacturers. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders noted that electric vehicles represented approximately 25% of UK sales during the first seven months of the year. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated the review aims to ensure targets remain practical while supporting British industry.
Climate and environmental advocates have expressed concern about weakening the mandate. The Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit calculated that reducing the EV sales target to 50% could result in 2.6 million fewer electric vehicles on UK roads by 2035. The Climate Change Committee has previously advised that transitioning from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles represents the most effective method for reducing transport-related carbon emissions over the coming decade. Environmental groups warned that diluting the targets undermines long-term climate commitments and sends mixed signals to manufacturers regarding investment certainty.
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