Some 80% of vehicles sold in the UK by 2030 will still need to be electric despite the ban on petrol and diesel cars being delayed until 2035.
Under the government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, carmakers will be required to make up a certain proportion of their sales each year with electric vehicles.
Starting at 22% next year, the proportion of car sales that must be electric will likely have hit 80% come 2030, with fines of up to £15,000 per car being threatened for manufacturers who fail to meet the target.
Following a speech by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirming the sale ban on petrol and diesel cars had been pushed back, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch told the BBC on Thursday that the ZEV mandate would remain in place.
Sunak’s decision to push the ban back has faced scrutiny from some, with concerns being raised over its effects on the UK’s 2050 net zero target.
Trade body Energy UK argued the sudden U-turn could jeopardise investment in the sector while retailer Auto Trader suggested the move may prevent people from buying EVs.
Jaguar Land Rover and Toyota were among those to welcome the move, however, hailing the decision to bring the UK in line with Europe’s 2035 ban on petrol and diesel car sales.
The move was “pragmatic,” the pair said, adding it offered the industry much-needed clarity.