London
Britain’s decision to delay the ban on new fossil fuel car sales until 2035, from the previously planned 2030, has drawn mixed reactions. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the delay is intended to help those who cannot afford electric vehicles (EVs) and is not politically motivated.
However, industry analysts believe that the move has introduced uncertainty into the investment landscape for automakers, especially as the UK is trying to attract investors following Brexit.
The initial 2030 ban was seen as an ambitious move to establish British leadership in the global EV market, as it was ahead of the EU’s 2035 deadline. Now, with the delay, some are concerned about the message it sends to investors regarding the government’s commitment to EVs.
Under the new zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which is expected to be unveiled soon, the UK aims to have 80% of new cars sold in the country be fully electric by 2030, with the remaining 20% comprising fossil fuel models and hybrids until 2035. While some carmakers have expressed concerns, others like Jaguar Land Rover have welcomed the clarity the ZEV mandate will provide.
In the global context, the UK represents a relatively small portion of car sales, so the delay may not significantly impact the overall transition to EVs. Major automakers are already heavily investing in electric technology, driven by cost competitiveness and the global shift toward sustainable transportation.
Ultimately, the automotive industry’s trajectory toward full electrification remains intact, but the delay in the UK could create challenges for automakers planning their investment strategies and supply chain adjustments in the region.
