The UK government is discussing the possibility of easing requirements for the transition to zero-emission transport by 2030. This comes amid high electric car sales, low running costs and high owner satisfaction, The Guardian reports.
According to a recent survey, 94% of electric car owners are saving money. The same share of respondents said they would buy an electric car again and recommend one to others. Last month, electric cars accounted for about 28% of new car sales, and their share exceeded half when hybrids were included. Meanwhile, rising petrol and diesel prices pushed the cost of filling a tank to almost £120.
Current plans stipulate that by 2030, electric cars should account for 80% of new car sales and 70% of new van sales. By 2035, all new cars sold in the country must be zero-emission. According to the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, lowering the target for cars to 50% could result in an additional 147 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions and increase drivers’ fuel costs.
The debate is taking place amid pressure from carmakers: they are slow to retool factories in the UK and face growing competition from China. In addition, London may have to introduce EU-agreed tariffs on Chinese electric cars to give an advantage to products labelled “Made in Europe”. This could push prices up. The Labour Party is divided: some MPs support protecting industrial jobs, while others want predictable rules to remain in place. The government says no final decision has been made and that its long-term commitments to achieving net zero emissions and carbon neutrality remain in force.