Overview
- The government confirmed a review of zero‑emission sales quotas, with preparatory work underway and a report due by early 2027, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is directing the process according to GB News.
- The zero‑emission vehicle mandate sets rising targets for new car sales at 22% in 2024, 28% in 2025, and 33% in 2026, with £12,000 fines per shortfall vehicle toward a 2030 petrol and diesel phase‑out and a 2035 all‑electric goal.
- New figures show UK car output fell 17% in February year on year, and the industry group SMMT says heavy EV discounting to hit quotas has cost manufacturers about £10 billion over two years.
- The Department for Transport says owning an EV is cheaper and that the industry is on track, while Conservatives call for the policy to be scrapped and several Labour MPs warn about risks to factory jobs.
- Ministers have already added flexibilities by allowing hybrids until 2035 and exempting small makers, and the SMMT now projects battery EVs at 28.5% of the market in 2026, below the 33% target.