Andy Burnham moves to cut new EV sales targets
Possible cut from 80% down to as little as 50% could add millions of tonnes of CO2 to emissions and comes amid UK heatwaves Andy Burnham’s government has said it will look at cutting electric vehicle sales targets, in proposals that could add millions of tonnes a year to the UK’s future carbon dioxide emissions. The government launched a consultation on Friday on cutting the target for new EVs to…
Andy Burnham's government is considering reducing the target for electric vehicle (EV) sales from 80% to as low as 50% of all new cars by 2030. This potential change could lead to an increase in carbon emissions, coming at a time when the UK is experiencing heatwaves. The government released a consultation on Friday, offering several options, including maintaining or lowering the target.
Heatwaves have caused property damage in the West Midlands, traditionally a hub for the UK automotive industry. EV sales have risen by 29% this year, but the automotive industry claims the targets are too demanding, threatening jobs and even factory closures. The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, aims to keep targets under review to ensure they are practical and support British industry.
Climate campaigners and the electric car charging industry strongly oppose the potential changes, stressing the importance of EVs in cutting UK carbon pollution. The sale of new petrol and diesel cars is set to be banned by 2035, and the ZEV mandate has already been softened once with the addition of "flexibilities" that permit plug-in hybrids towards the target. The consultation will remain open until October 23rd.
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