The UK has long sought to ban the sale of new ICE models by 2030, a goal that Ford has historically supported. However, with EV sales trailing behind expected levels of growth in that country, UK officials have softened those plans somewhat by allowing for the continued sale of plug-in hybrids. Despite this, many feel as it reaching the UK’s zero-emission vehicle emissions targets is simply impossible at this point – at least, without robust EV incentives – and that’s precisely why officials are now asking Ford and other automakers for input on that particular topic.
According to Autocar, UK transport secretary Heidi Alexander has launched a consultation inviting automakers’ input on how each believes it can reach its ZEV goals by 2030, which is designed to “restore clarity for vehicle manufacturers and the charging industry so that they have the confidence to invest in the UK in the long-term and drive growth in the UK automotive industry.” This move comes on the heels of comments from business secretary Jonathan Reynolds acknowledging the fact that EV sales aren’t on track to meet the country’s current targets – both in the short- and longer-term.
As of now, the UK’s ZEV mandate requires automakers to reach an EV sales mix of 22 percent this year, after which it rises to 80 percent by 2030. If automakers don’t meet these targets, they will be forced to pay hefty fines, with Ford potentially facing some of the largest of any of its peers. At the moment, EV sales on are track to account for just 18.5 percent of the overall market in 2024. Regardless, UK officials remain adamant that they believe they can take measures to boost EV sales to the point where they can still meet their 2030 target.
Ford has been quite vocal about its desire for the UK and European governments to offer robust incentives in an effort to drive EV sales, which have thus far fallen behind expected levels of growth. It was recently joined by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who echoed the automaker’s sentiments during an appearance at The Blue Oval’s Cologne Electric Vehicle Center.
Comments
The UK, or the EU for that matter, can’t provide reliable energy as it is now, how do they expect to provide enough charge stations or even afford chargers at home?? For a service station that has just 4 GAS pumps, they would have to triple that in chargers to make up for the loss. It takes a half hour to charge an EV compared to a few minutes for gas. It’s become clear that these EV batteries are FAR more dangerous as well and can’t do crap in cold weather. Have fun UK!
It’s fine to consult the manufacturers but why not talk to the buying public at the same time. The government will quickly learn that EVs are not the be-all that they were hoping for.
I totally agree….its the idea they setting unrealistic mandates….and trying to force feed us…the politicans that are doing this…are going to be voted out..as time gets near…until a more sensible plan is plan….