UK’s Roadmap to Electric Vehicles: 2035 Target Set
The UK government has revealed its plan for the transition to zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), setting targets for manufacturers and providing a clearer timeline for consumers.
The government is aiming for 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold in Great Britain to be zero emission by 2030, and 100% by 2035. This decision, announced on September 28, 2023, gives manufacturers and families time to adjust by providing more time for the second-hand EV market to expand and for charging infrastructure to be rolled out across the country.
The UK’s ambition has already stimulated investments in gigafactories and EV manufacturing, with over £6 billion in private sector charging infrastructure funding also pledged.
This ZEV mandate is considered one of the most ambitious in the world, supported by over £2 billion in government investment. The plan sets minimum annual targets, beginning with 22% of new cars sold in 2024 needing to be zero emission. These targets will progressively increase each year until 2035.
The government’s strategy offers flexibility, allowing manufacturers to trade compliance credits. Manufacturers can also borrow against future targets in the initial stages.
Leading industry figures like the AA and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have welcomed the clarity provided by the mandate. They emphasize the need for appropriate infrastructure, incentives for drivers, and affordable ZEVs to match the supply.
Supporting this, the government has introduced several schemes to lower the upfront and running costs of EVs, including grants and tax relief. Furthermore, there are plans to continue growing the charging infrastructure, with investment to support the installation of tens of thousands of new chargers across the country.
Ultimately, the move towards zero emission vehicles is expected to be the most significant carbon-saving step in the UK’s path toward net zero emissions.
