Ministers will consult with car makers to find “options for a better way forward”
The UK government is set to rework its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate in response to concerns from car manufacturers. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds announced that the government will consult with car makers to explore options for a more effective approach. While he confirmed that the 2030 ban on new pure-combustion cars will remain, there may be changes to the current mandate, which requires car makers to achieve a 22% EV sales mix in 2024, increasing to 80% by 2030.
Currently, EV sales are projected to only reach 18.5% market share this year, prompting criticism from manufacturers who argue that the targets are unrealistic without government support, such as incentives for EV purchases. Ford’s managing director expressed that while the goal of 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035 is shared, current market challenges make the existing mandate difficult to follow. The government aims to finalize its consultations by January, providing clarity on future regulations.
The net zero goals are set for a reason, the earth is not sustainable and climate change is happening.
Transportation is a major contributor. Internal combustion engine (ICE) cars will need to be replaced by EVs. This will be painful for the major ICE producers. It will require investments in technology, investment is batteries, new methods of selling, new method of distribution of fuel. The governments job is to aid this transition. BuzzEV’s mission is also aligned with the Government’s.
COP 29 Baku: A Step Forward, but Not Without Challenges
Our view is that it is time to be bold. Sticking your head in the sand does not make the problem go away. The manufacturers will always resist the pace of change. Our plea to the Government is be bold and address the pain points;
- retrain the workforce,
- help build the charging infrastruction,
- help with export possibilities particularly to EU,
- ease investments into battery plants,
The Government should grab the nettle, move forward. Lead the way and the UK can emerge a winner in this energy revolution.
