The UK government is poised to announce a reduction in its electric vehicle (EV) sales targets this week, a move that is likely to be welcomed by car manufacturers but strongly opposed by environmental groups. The expected change follows a review into the policy that aims to ban new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035.
Current Targets and Industry Pressure
Under existing rules, 80% of new cars sold in the UK must be electric by 2030. However, industry bodies have long argued for "urgent relief," claiming the targets are too ambitious given current market conditions. New petrol or diesel cars are scheduled to be phased out by 2030, and by 2035 all new cars must be zero-emission. The speed of this transition has been a subject of intense debate, including within the cabinet.
The government has been consulting on reducing the 80% rule, and a significant reduction is now anticipated. Downing Street has insisted that no final decision has been made, but a government source told the BBC that the issue would be approached in a "pragmatic and balanced" way.
Political and Environmental Implications
If ministers do decide on a steeper watering-down of the rules, it will arguably be interpreted by some, alongside the recent approval of the Jackdaw gas field, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham prioritising economic considerations over environmental ones. Sustainability groups warn that any weakening of the 2030 target will threaten the UK's long-term electrification and climate goals.
The move comes as the EU also waters down its plans to end new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035, signalling a broader shift in approach to EV mandates across Europe.
What This Means for the UK's Climate Goals
The UK's climate commitments, including its net-zero strategy, rely heavily on the rapid adoption of electric vehicles. A reduction in the 2030 target could undermine these efforts and delay the transition to cleaner transport. Environmental advocates argue that weakening the targets sends the wrong signal to investors and consumers, and could slow the development of charging infrastructure.
On the other hand, carmakers have argued that the current targets are unrealistic without significant government support for charging infrastructure and consumer incentives. They claim that a more gradual approach would allow the industry to adapt without damaging jobs and competitiveness.
The government's decision will be closely watched by both industry and environmental stakeholders, as it balances economic pressures with its climate ambitions.
