UK government considers weakening electric vehicle mandates

The UK government is considering a consultation to weaken the Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which currently requires battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales to reach 80% by 2030. Reports suggest the government may consider lowering the 2030 target to 50%, with other options including 60% or 70%.

Analysis indicates that weakening these targets could cost UK consumers up to £3bn annually by 2030. Such a move could also result in the UK importing an additional 17 million barrels of oil in 2030, increasing net imports by 8% and adding 2.5% to national emissions. While car manufacturers have lobbied for regulatory reform to protect competitiveness and jobs, research suggests BEVs remain significantly cheaper to own and run than petrol or hybrid alternatives.

A YouGov poll commissioned by ChargeUK reveals that most Britons do not support slowing the transition to electric cars. Only 37% of respondents believe the move should be eased, while 53% favor maintaining or accelerating the current pace. Support for the transition is particularly high among younger voters and those who voted for Green or Liberal Democrat parties.