We are hiring! Are you an experienced technician? Join our outstanding team »
EV Demand Awaiting ZEV Mandate
Reading time 4 minutes
Categories Automotive Industry » Driving News »
We are hiring! Are you an experienced technician? Join our outstanding team »
EV Demand Awaiting ZEV Mandate
Reading time 4 minutes
Categories Automotive Industry » Driving News »
As any motoring enthusiast will know, big changes are afoot in the automotive industry.
From 2030 onwards the sale of all new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will be banned in the UK, as the country looks to reach its net zero targets and reduce its impact on the environment.
Petrol and diesel cars produce a lot of harmful emissions, and so this move is designed to encourage drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs).
17% of the cars registered in the UK in 2022 and 16% of cars registered in March 2023 were electric. This is a significant rise compared to previous years but despite the surge in popularity, electric cars still remain unattainable for many. The average cost of an EV is around £44,000 with data from Autotrader stating that the most interest in these vehicles comes from those earning in excess of £50,000 per year.
As 2030 edges ever closer, the government has launched two new schemes to encourage people to make the plunge and purchase an electric vehicle.
The zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate is proposed legislation that will force manufacturers to meet electric vehicle sales targets in the lead-up to 2030. From 2024 onwards, these targets will be 22% for cars and 10% for vans, and it will then increase to 80% and 70% respectively in 2030 before moving to 100% by 2035.
The mandate entered the consultation phase in March, which will outline how the government will carry out the plans, including references to how it will enhance the country’s energy security, create economic opportunities and deliver on the country’s net zero responsibilities.
It’s predicted that this mandate will lower the cost of electric cars for consumers, increasing the uptake on Britain’s roads and saving drivers money.
In addition to the ZEV mandate, the government has also introduced the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund. This fund will designate £380m to the building of EV charging infrastructure, ensuring that by the time 2030 arrives there are plenty of locations across the country where people can charge up.
Local authorities can apply directly to the government if they want to use the fund to build more infrastructure in their area.
Both schemes and the government’s overall pledge to end the sale of new fuel cars by 2030 are part of a wider plan. Powering Up Britain is the government’s policy aim to be fully net zero by 2050, with clean transportation one of the biggest factors needed to achieve this.
But how have industry leaders reacted to the news?
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) have welcomed the introduction of the mandate, saying that by sticking to the firm 2030 deadline, the government has provided much-needed clarity for the industry.
The hope now is that as well as consumers, many businesses will be encouraged to invest in electric vehicle fleets. You can check out our video on the benefits of electric vehicle fleets here.
There had been some suggestion prior to this announcement that the UK might follow the lead of the EU, by delaying the ban on fuel vehicles to 2035. The European Union has extended its deadline by five years for vehicles that can fill up with CO2-neutral fuels- also known as e-fuels.
However, the government has ruled this out, something that award-winning motoring journalist and founder of the EV campaign group FairCharge Quentin Willson is pleased about.
He said: “The Government is absolutely right to stick to its targets to phase out petrol and diesel cars from 2030 – lobbying from the European car industry is a red herring wrapped in self-interest and for the sake of green investment and clean air we strongly welcome this decision. FairCharge is delighted that the Government has listened to our appeals for a strong ZEV mandate and confirmed the trajectory consultation figures of 22% for 2024, 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2035. Critically, the mandate has not been watered down.”
At The Windscreen Company, no matter what kind of car you drive we’re here to help. We offer a dedicated windscreen replacement and windscreen repair service that will keep you and your road users safe at all times. If you’ve suffered any windscreen damage it’s important it’s addressed as soon as possible. Operating across the West Midlands and South East, get in touch with The Windscreen Company today.
The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.
The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.
© The Windscreen Company 2024. All Rights Reserved.
The Windscreen Company is a registered company in England.
Registered Number: 3545701 VAT Number: 720 0628 78
By clicking "Accept All Cookies", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, assist in our marketing efforts, and for personalised advertising.