Overview
- Officials set out three compliance models: manufacturer sales quotas for electric HGVs, declining emissions caps for hauliers, or requirements for delivery firms to electrify fleets to 100%.
- The plan contemplates an earlier cutoff for smaller trucks up to 26 tonnes, potentially from 2035.
- Low‑carbon and synthetic fuels would not count toward compliance under the proposals.
- Conservative and Reform politicians warn of higher costs passed through supply chains, while the Road Haulage Association highlights infrastructure gaps and vehicle affordability.
- Electric HGV uptake remains tiny at roughly 500 vehicles out of a 535,000‑strong fleet, with a sector survey showing most firms have no EV plans and analysts estimating about £100bn in support needs, as the government moves to cut upfront costs by up to £120,000 on some models.