UK government explores new path for electric car transition after industry talks
British officials plan to re-examine electric vehicle rules after car-makers highlight production challenges. Business Secretary prepares to launch quick consultation process while keeping main eco-targets intact
The UKʼs electric-car rules might get a mid-way update as car-makers push-back against current requirements. Jonathan Reynolds and Louise Haigh met with seven auto-industry heads last week to discuss the road-map ahead
The govt plans to keep its no-petrol-cars-by-2030 goal but might add some wiggle-room for manufacturers (who need to hit specific electric-car sales targets before then). A quick-review process will start next Tuesday‚ when the Business Secretary speaks at a London car-industry meet-up
Last week Ford cut 800 UK jobs due to slow electric-car production; while Nissan warned about market damage. The car-maker Stellantis might close its Ellesmere Port and Luton sites – putting 1000 jobs at risk – if rules dont change
- Current rules say 22% of new cars must be electric
- This number grows to 28% by 26
- Companies can adjust their sales timing if they catch-up later
The charging-station industry isnt happy about possible changes. Vicky Read from ChargeUK says: “Any back-stepping now puts billions of charging-station investment at risk; we need clear direction – not uncertainty“
