Europa Posted on 2026-08-17 10:51:00

Electric vehicle targets eased - Britain considers pathways to zero emissions by 2030

From Dorian Koça

Electric vehicle targets eased - Britain considers pathways to zero emissions by

Britain has unveiled a range of options that could ease pressure on carmakers to shift new sales to zero-emission vehicles, launching a review of existing targets that gradually phase out new petrol and diesel cars.

The mandate, introduced in 2024, requires carmakers to ensure that an increasing portion of their annual sales are zero-emission vehicles, with electric vehicles accounting for 33% of new car sales by 2026, 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2035.

The policy is designed to accelerate the industry's shift to electric vehicles by imposing fines on manufacturers who fail to meet targets. However, carmakers have argued that supply chain disruptions and insufficient consumer demand are making it difficult to meet the requirements.

A government consultation opened on Friday seeking industry views on four alternative pathways for the targets. Three would maintain the 2035 end point but reduce the 2030 target to just 50%. A fourth would maintain the existing pathway but introduce new flexibility to help manufacturers meet the requirements.

The Association of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has previously argued for an urgent review of the entire mandate, saying higher energy prices, incomplete charging infrastructure and weak consumer confidence were stifling demand despite manufacturers offering significant discounts on electric vehicles.

Battery electric vehicles accounted for 27.4% of new car registrations in July.

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