ZEV Mandate is not working, despite rising EV sales
The SMMT has warned that strong electric vehicle sales figures do not mean the ZEV Mandate is working.
Sales of electric cars and vans rose 44% and 74% respectively last month.
However, the SMMT said the uptick is being driven by extreme measures taken by manufacturers rather than natural consumer demand.
It said that real demand is actually about a third of what the ZEV Mandate requires, with not a single vehicle manufacturer believing the 80% target by 2030 is achievable.
SMMT CEO Mike Hawes said: “Positive figures do not mean this is a market transforming of its own accord. Progress is significant but suggesting this proves the ZEV Mandate is working ignores the reality facing those expected to deliver it.
“The mandate compels supply; it cannot create demand. Repeated surveys put underlying demand well below the headline figures at around 10% to 13% – a long way from the mandated targets of 33% this year, 38% next year and 52% by 2028. The reality is that not a single manufacturer believes the regulated 2030 target of 80% is on track.”
Hawes continued: “With just three and a half years to go, and despite unprecedented incentives, BEV share is 25.3% for cars and not even half that for vans.
“Urgent reform of the mandate is therefore needed, alongside renewed commitment from all stakeholders to build consumer confidence.
“Ambition matters, but delivery is essential. Government, industry and the energy and charging sectors must work together to ensure a just transition that is affordable and supports investment in UK automotive manufacturing. Without both, we risk undermining the very transition we are trying to accelerate.”
