Government announces ZEV Mandate review
The government has launched a ZEV Mandate review, with industry feedback invited until 23 October.
The review will consider if current targets are achievable and how they will impact the automotive industry.
It said: “This government has always been clear and consistent about our zero emission transition milestones – we are committed to phasing out new cars relying solely on internal combustion engines by 2030 and to 100% of new car and van sales being zero emission by 2035.
“We are also aware of wider challenges and uncertainty faced by the UK automotive sector, related to energy price increases, growing international competition and uncertainty around the impact of potential changes to how UK-made vehicles will be treated in export markets.
“The government must support the industry to play its part in the transition, while ensuring it remains attractive for manufacturers to base operations in the UK, with all the benefits that brings in providing the green jobs of the future.”
Commitment
The government continued: “We have a long-standing commitment to publish a review of the ZEV Mandate to ensure we are taking a pragmatic and balanced approach to the transition. This consultation forms an important part of the review process and seeks views on potential adjustments to the Mandate.
“These views will inform our approach as the UK continues to transition to zero emission vehicles and as we continue to work together with industry to make Britain cleaner, more secure, and more prosperous.”
Transition
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “We welcome government’s consultation on the ZEV Mandate and how it should change to better support the UK’s transition. Industry remains fully committed to a zero-emission future, investing billions in new technologies, products and, along with government, consumer incentives. The regulation was conceived, however, under very different conditions – cheaper energy, rapidly declining production costs, and more optimistic global demand expectations.
“Regulatory targets are now running ahead of current consumer demand, so this review is a timely opportunity to optimise the pace of change. This is a regulation that increasingly dictates consumer choice – and therefore automotive companies’ future strategies and viability – so it must work for all involved.
“That means a commercially sustainable transition that supports UK competitiveness, investment and jobs while delivering greater choice and affordability for motorists – with a rapid resolution needed to unlock those benefits for everyone.”
Sue Robinson, chief executive of the NFDA, added: “The review of the ZEV Mandate is a timely opportunity to consider how the transition can work effectively for the whole automotive sector.
“The industry has made significant progress in increasing the availability and choice of electric vehicles, but the market must remain commercially sustainable.
“The results from the consultation need to ensure consumers have the choice and affordability needed to make the transition. Franchised retailers are playing a vital role in this process and have a clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing customers.”
