UK Plots EV Future: Restoring 2030 Petrol & Diesel Phase-Out
The UK government has launched a consultation aimed at restoring the 2030 phase-out date for new petrol and diesel cars, signaling renewed commitment to transitioning to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander unveiled the initiative on December 24, calling on the automotive and charging industries to shape the country’s clean energy future.
The consultation seeks industry input on measures to achieve the 2030 goal, offering updates to the ZEV Mandate, which defines the percentage of zero-emission cars and vans manufacturers must sell annually. Flexibilities within the mandate allow manufacturers to tailor their compliance strategies, ensuring the transition remains practical and effective.
Speaking about the initiative, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the pivotal role of the automotive sector, stating:
"Employing 152,000 people and adding £19 billion to our economy, the UK’s automotive industry is a huge asset to our nation — and the transition to electric is an unprecedented opportunity to attract investment, harness British innovation, and deliver growth for generations to come."
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds echoed the sentiment, highlighting the potential for job creation and industrial growth:
"There is no route to net zero without backing British industries and workers. There are huge advantages for British industry, and we must make sure decarbonisation creates jobs and opportunities."
The government has committed significant funding to support this transition, including £2 billion for domestic manufacturers and over £300 million to encourage consumer uptake of EVs. With the EV market growing rapidly—one in four new cars sold in November was electric—the consultation aims to provide clarity and confidence for long-term investment.
Public charging infrastructure is also expanding at a record pace. More than 72,000 public chargepoints are currently available, with an additional 100,000 planned by local authorities across England through the Local EV Infrastructure Fund. The government has also pledged £6 billion in private investment to accelerate the roll-out of chargepoints nationwide.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband described the transition as a cornerstone of the UK’s clean energy strategy, stating:
"Accelerating the transition to electric vehicles will drive forward our clean energy superpower mission and brings huge economic opportunities. It will help drivers access cars that are cheaper to run, cut air pollution in our cities and towns, back British manufacturers, and provide highly skilled jobs in emerging industries."
The consultation also explores ways to streamline planning and installation processes for EV chargepoints, reduce barriers for zero-emission van deployment, and improve grid connections for charging infrastructure.
With measures like these, the UK aims to solidify its position as a global leader in clean energy and zero-emission transport, while driving investment, innovation, and job creation in the automotive sector.
