The Conservative Party is considering a significant U-turn on their electric vehicle policy by potentially scrapping the 2030 target for banning new petrol and diesel cars. This move comes as part of a broader reassessment of their environmental commitments following their election defeat.
Andrew Griffith, the Shadow Business Secretary, recently addressed the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders conference, expressing concerns about ‘state intervention’ in the automotive sector. He emphasized the need for ‘real consumer choice’ rather than government diktats, suggesting that the current Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate could be revisited.
The ZEV mandate, which was made legally binding in 2019 under former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May, requires UK car manufacturers to meet specific targets for electric vehicle sales or face penalties. The current plan is for all new car sales to be electric or hybrid by 2030, with at least 28% being fully electric this year. However, the industry has struggled to meet these targets, and the UK is currently lagging behind.
Griffith’s comments reflect the concerns of the automotive industry, which has warned that the mandate could put jobs and investment at risk. The previous Conservative government had already pushed back the ban on new petrol and diesel cars until 2035 under Rishi Sunak. Labour relaxed some of the rules around the ZEV mandate earlier this year in response to tariff charges announced by Donald Trump.
Environmental campaigners have strongly criticized the potential policy shift, warning that scrapping the mandate would jeopardize up to £22 billion in investment in batteries and electric cars, as well as good jobs across the country. Johann Beckford, senior policy adviser at Green Alliance, noted that the regulations have made the UK the largest electric vehicle market in Europe.
The Conservative Party’s consideration of this policy change reflects their broader re-evaluation of their net zero approach. Kemi Badenoch, the party’s head, has described the 2050 net zero target as ‘impossible’ to achieve without significant economic costs. The party is now focusing on promoting ‘consumer choice’ in the UK’s car market rather than adhering to strict environmental targets.
The debate over the ZEV mandate highlights the tension between environmental goals and economic concerns in the automotive sector. While the Conservatives are pushing for a more business-friendly approach, environmental groups are urging caution against rolling back climate commitments.
