UK Electric Vehicle Policy

EV Sales Targets and Manufacturer Regulations

The UK has set regulations requiring car manufacturers to meet electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. Starting in 2024, a minimum percentage of all new cars sold must be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), with the goal of achieving 100% ZEV sales by 2035. If manufacturers fail to meet these targets, they face fines of £15,000 for each non-compliant vehicle sold.

2024 - Car manufacturers must ensure that at least 22% of all new car sales are zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to meet regulatory targets.

2025 - By this year, the requirement increases to a minimum of 28% of new car sales, emphasizing the transition to ZEVs.

2026 - Aiming for sustainability, car manufacturers must achieve at least 33% of new car sales as zero-emission vehicles to comply with regulations.

2035 - The UK government aims for a complete transition, with 100% of new car sales being zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

The UK government is implementing EV sales targets as part of its Road to Zero strategy to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector. The transition to zero-emission vehicles is essential for meeting the UK's commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

While the government aims to improve air quality and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, some manufacturers have expressed concerns about the feasibility of these targets, citing challenges like charging infrastructure, production costs, and supply chain constraints. Despite this pushback, the government remains committed to fostering innovation within the automotive industry to create a sustainable, low-carbon future.