Summary
Ford's UK boss, Lisa Brankin, has expressed concerns about potential new taxes on electric vehicles (EVs), arguing that imposing these taxes now could deter buyers. The UK government is considering measures like a pay-per-mile charge for EVs to create a fairer tax system. Ford is under pressure to increase EV sales to meet environmental targets and suggests government incentives are needed.
Key Facts
- Ford's UK boss warns that taxes on electric vehicles could discourage buyers as demand is currently weak.
- The UK government is considering a pay-per-mile charge for EVs to ensure fairer vehicle tax systems by 2028.
- Ford's managing director says calculating mileage for this tax may deter potential EV buyers.
- The UK aims for 80% of new car sales to be electric vehicles by 2030 to meet environmental goals.
- Ford indicates it might struggle to meet the 80% target without government incentives.
- Fully-electric vehicles accounted for about 22.4% of new car sales in the UK by October 2025.
- A large portion of new EVs are sold to businesses, benefiting from lower company car taxes.
- The future of Ford's diesel engine plant in Dagenham, employing nearly 1,800 staff, is uncertain beyond 2030 due to the shift to EVs.
