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Britain considers easing 2030 zero-emission vehicle targets
The review follows record EV sales and could lower the 2030 sales goal to as low as 50%, industry groups said.
- On Friday, Britain launched a review of its zero-emission vehicle mandate, consulting on alternative pathways for electric vehicle sales targets. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said, "It's right we keep targets under review to ensure they're practical and back British industry."
- The Labour government inherited the ZEV policy from the Conservative Party in 2024, but motor industry figures now argue that meeting current targets is costly and consumer demand for electric vehicles remains insufficient despite manufacturer discounts.
- Under current policy, EV sales must reach 33% in 2026 and 80% by 2030, with a complete petrol ban by 2035. The government is consulting on four alternatives, including three that would retain the 2035 endpoint but cut the 2030 target to 50%.
- Industry lobby group SMMT welcomed the review, with boss Hawes calling it "a timely opportunity to adjust the transition." Environmental groups disagreed, with the Green Alliance warning the move would "lock in avoidable emissions."
- Battery EVs accounted for 27.4% of new registrations in July, according to industry body New AutoMotive. The Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit calculated that cutting the 2030 target to 50% would mean 2.6 million fewer electric cars on roads by 2035.
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24 Articles
24 Articles
Electric vehicle 2030 target set to be watered down as Government launches consultation on target
A target to boost the number of electric car sales by 2030 could be watered down, amid fears the UK automotive sector faces high energy prices and stiff international competition.
·London, United Kingdom
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·London, United Kingdom
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The IndependentReposted by 
The Independent (US)
The Independent (US)Government could slash EV sales targets as zero emissions mandate comes under review
Car makers want more breathing room from ZEV mandate, but electric car charging firms warn a policy wobble could slow Britain’s switch to electric cars.
·London, United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources24
Leaning Left5Leaning Right2Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution42% Left, 42% Center
Bias Distribution
- 42% of the sources lean Left, 42% of the sources are Center
42% Center
L 42%
C 42%
R 16%
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