Labour expected to cut EV targets for UK’s car industry despite MPs’ protests
Summary
The UK government is expected to cut electric-vehicle sales targets by about a quarter, easing pressure on carmakers but prompting concern among Labour MPs about its climate commitments. Ministers have not announced a decision, and the government says it remains committed to ending sales of new cars that rely only on petrol or diesel by 2030 and reaching zero-emission sales for all new cars and vans by 2035.Key Facts
- Transport Secretary Louise Haigh is expected to finalise a plan after a meeting between government departments.
- The current rules require carmakers to increase the share of electric vehicles they sell over time, with an 80% target for 2030 and a 100% target for 2035.
- The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says battery-electric vehicles made up 26.6% of new car sales in the first 10 months of the year, below the 33% target for this year.
- The rules include exemptions that can let carmakers avoid fines if they miss sales targets, including by selling more hybrids or making up sales later.
- The government says its consultation will not change its commitment to the 2030 and 2035 targets or its legally binding net-zero goals.
- Labour MPs Lizzi Collinge and Catherine Fookes urged the government to retain the zero-emission vehicle mandate.
- Industry figures have warned that further changes to government plans could put investment in charging infrastructure at risk.
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