The UK Government has said it will launch a ‘fast track’ consultation on EV sales targets in the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, after major concern from the auto industry.
Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds said that a consultation would be launched in the coming weeks at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’s annual dinner today, Wednesday 27 November.
The consultation is more likely to change the options that car manufacturers can avoid being fined for missing targets, rather changing the percentages of zero-emission vehicles they are to produce.
Reynolds confirmed that the government is still committed to the 2030 phase out date for petrol and diesel cars, but that the consultation is to find ways to to support the industry as the UK moves to clean vehicles.
The Department for Transport (DfT) recently held talks with car manufacturers to hear their concerns and challenges when it comes to selling an increasing proportion of electric vehicles, as demand is still low, with most sales going to the fleet industry.
During this meeting, the government had ruled out weakening the electric vehicle production targets.
Dominic Phinn, Head of Transport at Climate Group commented:
“As the UK Government launches its ZEV Mandate consultation, policymakers need to ask themselves a simple question: are they prepared to risk the incredible progress the UK has made in moving towards a cleaner, more sustainable transport system?
“Any changes to this world-leading legislation will seed uncertainty among businesses – threatening investments, business cases, and the clear and confident path so many companies across the country have put themselves on.
“There is absolutely no need for a relaxation. Contrary to intense lobbying from a small number of carmakers over recent weeks and months, demand for EVs is strong and growing. While sales of petrol and diesel cars are stalling, EV sales now account for 18 percent of the global market. The country’s leading companies need both the volume and the variety of models the ZEV Mandate guarantees, as do British drivers who deserve their next car to be electric.”
