UK Government Launches Review of Electric Vehicle Sales Targets

The UK government has launched a consultation on potentially reducing the sales targets for electric vehicles (EVs) following pressure from car manufacturers. Under the current zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, the percentage of new cars sold that must be EVs increases annually, with a target of 80% by 2030. The government is now considering reducing that 2030 target to as low as 50%, with other options including 60% or 70%. The consultation will run until late October.

Car industry representatives, including the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, argue that the current mandate was conceived under different conditions and puts too much pressure on manufacturers. They warn that the targets could lead to job losses, factory closures, or the need to sell electric cars at discounts. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that the government must ensure targets are practical and back British industry, though she maintained that the end goal has not changed.

Alternative options under consideration include keeping the 80% target but extending flexibility for manufacturers until 2034. The government has confirmed that the ban on selling new purely petrol or diesel cars by 2030 remains in place. However, a reduction in pure EV targets would allow for a higher proportion of hybrid vehicles to be sold.

Environmental groups and electric vehicle advocates have criticized the move. Critics argue that weakening the mandate undermines long term climate goals and sends the wrong signal to investors. The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit suggests that cutting the target to 50% could reduce EV sales by as many as 5.8 million vehicles and make the 2035 ban on hybrid sales harder to achieve.