The UK government is facing calls from industry leaders to maintain its ambitious new regulations requiring that 80% of all vehicle sales be zero-emission by 2030. EVA England, a leading electric vehicle association, has sent an open letter to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, urging the government not to dilute the 2030 ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) Mandate.
Vicky Edmunds, CEO of EVA England, emphasized the importance of preserving the mandate as a strong, stable policy to provide certainty to drivers, the automotive industry, and investors alike. She warned that watering down the policy would undermine confidence and send a negative signal during this critical transition period.
“Drivers need assurance that the vehicles they are encouraged to buy are the right choice,” Edmunds said. “Maintaining the ZEV Mandate without public uncertainty is key to supporting the shift to electric vehicles.”
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Edmunds highlighted that UK drivers are increasingly open to electric vehicles, viewing them as viable alternatives in their major purchasing decisions when factors like cost, charging infrastructure, and practical benefits are favorable. EVA England’s research shows that 95% of current EV drivers are committed to zero-emission vehicles and would not return to petrol or diesel cars.
The government has highlighted growth in electric vehicle adoption, noting that over 381,000 electric cars were sold in the UK last year—the highest number in Europe and the third largest globally. Labour’s recent government update praised consumers for embracing EVs due to lower running costs, improved air quality, and quieter communities. The domestic automotive sector is also reportedly investing more than £20 billion to develop EV technologies and retool manufacturing facilities for the future.
In the initial year of the ZEV Mandate in 2024, manufacturers exceeded the car segment target with a 24.3% compliance rate above the 22% goal. Vans achieved 9.3% compliance, slightly under the 10% target, due to some challenges.
Labour reaffirmed its commitment to balancing ambitious climate goals with industry realities, stating that policy decisions aim to address both environmental objectives and the pressures faced by manufacturers during this transition.