The UK government began consultations with the automotive industry on Friday on 4 alternative options for reviewing the phaseout targets for new petrol and diesel cars. Three of the options would retain the 2035 target while cutting the 2030 electric-car target to 50%.
Current targets
Requirements issued in 2024 oblige automakers to ensure that zero-emission vehicles account for an increasing share of their annual sales, with electric cars to make up 33% of new-car sales in 2026 and 80% in 2030, rising to 100% by 2035.
The policy aims to accelerate the industry's shift to electric cars by imposing fines on manufacturers that fail to meet the targets. Automakers say supply-chain disruption and insufficient consumer demand are making compliance difficult.
Alternative options
The consultation covers 4 alternative options. Three would retain the 2035 target while lowering the 2030 target to 50%, while the fourth would maintain the current trajectory with new flexibility to help manufacturers comply.
Reasons for the review
The UK Department for Transport said the review comes amid global economic conditions, supply-chain disruption and uncertainty surrounding tariffs and trade, with the aim of ensuring that the targets remain supportive of businesses and grounded in reality.
