2030 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles

author: FutureCar Staff    

A recent survey of car dealers in the UK has found that most expect the government's 2030 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles to be delayed or cancelled entirely. The survey, conducted by Close Brothers Motor Finance and based on responses from 157 dealerships, revealed that 85% of dealers do not believe the ban will go ahead as planned. The automotive trade body has called on ministers to reduce taxation on electric vehicle charging costs and to confirm the proposed Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate to boost demand for electric cars before the end of the decade.

The survey also found that two-thirds of dealers believe the ban will be delayed, while a further 18% think it will be scrapped altogether. In addition, 54% of used car dealers currently do not stock electric cars due to a decline in demand and a decrease in the value of EVs in the past year. Furthermore, only 1% of car dealers plan to invest in charging points in the next six months. These findings highlight the challenges faced by the government in increasing electric car sales in the UK.

The report from Close Brothers Motor Finance reflects the results of a poll conducted for the Daily Mail, which showed that only 28% of the public supports the 2030 ban. Former prime minister Liz Truss has also called for the ban to be delayed, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is conducting an audit of his net-zero policies to determine which ones may be adjusted or abandoned. However, despite concerns about the costs of implementing the ban, Sunak is reportedly still planning to proceed with it.

The Society of Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has urged the government to provide incentives to make electric motoring more appealing to motorists. The SMMT highlighted the lack of incentives for consumer purchases of EVs in the UK compared to other European countries. A poll conducted on behalf of the SMMT showed that only 2% of UK motorists would buy an EV right now, with more than half not planning to buy one until 2026 or later. The SMMT called on the government to clarify the requirements of the ZEV mandate to manufacturers before the end of the year.

Car makers and industry experts have emphasized the need for increased incentives for drivers to switch to EVs. They have called for measures such as reducing VAT on public charging and EV purchases, exempting EVs from expensive car taxes, and improving the charging network. The affordability and charging infrastructure remain major concerns for consumers, and clearer communication from the government is needed to address these issues. The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee is currently investigating the feasibility of the mass-market transition to EVs and has received input from experts in the motor industry.

In summary, the survey of car dealers reveals skepticism regarding the government's 2030 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles. Dealers expect the ban to be delayed or cancelled, citing a decline in demand for electric cars and a lack of infrastructure. The government is being urged to provide incentives and clarify the requirements of the ZEV mandate to support the transition to electric vehicles. Industry experts emphasize the need for increased affordability and a clearer communication strategy to encourage consumers to switch to EVs.

FutureCar Staff