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UK considers cutting EV sales target to as low as 50% by 2030
The consultation would reduce the share of new cars required to be pure electric to as little as 50% in 2030, down from 80% under current rules.
The UK government said it is considering reductions to electric vehicle sales targets that could raise expected carbon dioxide emissions over the coming decade, launching a consultation on Friday on how much of new car sales should be EVs in 2030. The proposal would lower the requirement for new EVs to as little as 50% of all new cars, compared with 80% under existing rules.
Under the consultation, the government said it will consider several options, including keeping the headline target unchanged at 80%, or cutting it to 70%, 60% or 50%. The announcement came shortly after the UK recorded its hottest day of the year so far, following multiple heatwaves.
Electric car sales have risen 29% in the UK this year, but the automotive industry argues the zero emission vehicle mandate is pressuring manufacturers. The industry says the mandate can force EVs to be sold at discounts and has warned of potential job losses or UK factory closures if rules are not changed.
The government said the consultation reflects concerns about practicality and support for British industry, while climate campaigners and parts of the charging sector oppose the move. Under current rules, carmakers must sell increasing proportions of pure electric vehicles or face fines, with targets tightening from 33% this year to 80% in 2030, and a ban on new petrol and diesel cars due in 2035, according to the report.