EV-only approach's failure

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【Summary】Ineos Automotive CEO believes that relying solely on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to meet carbon targets will fail. She argues that a mix of technologies, including hydrogen and hybrid combustion engines, is needed. However, the Department for Transport's director of transport decarbonisation disagrees, stating that focusing on BEVs is advantageous given the current timescale. The head of Renault Trucks also supports BEVs as the first choice, with hydrogen as a secondary option.

FutureCar Staff Sep 18, 2023 4:16 PM PT

The CEO of Ineos Automotive, Lynn Calder, has expressed her belief that relying solely on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to meet the country's carbon targets will not succeed. Speaking at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) Electrified conference, Calder emphasized the need for a mix of technologies, including hydrogen and more efficient hybrid combustion engines, to achieve the desired goals.

Calder stated that constantly talking about electric vehicles (EVs) without considering other options is risky and could lead to failure and increased costs. She stressed the importance of having a comprehensive plan that goes beyond relying solely on EVs.

However, Richard Bruce, the director of transport decarbonisation at the Department for Transport, disagreed with Calder's viewpoint. Bruce argued that having multiple fuel options can be used as an excuse for inaction due to the ambiguity it creates within policy. He highlighted the clear advantage of BEVs, especially considering the current timescale involved, but suggested using alternative fuels in sectors where batteries are less viable, such as aviation.

Carlos Rodrigues, the head of Renault Trucks, supported the prioritization of battery-electric vehicles, particularly in the commercial sector. He stated that hydrogen should be used as a secondary option when batteries are less effective, such as in cases where weight is a significant concern. Rodrigues emphasized that when considering factors like nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and overall impact, BEVs are the superior choice compared to hydrogen.

Calder, who took over as CEO of Ineos Automotive in December, defended her stance by highlighting the needs of individuals in remote areas. She specifically mentioned buyers of the Ineos Grenadier, which is currently sold with only a 3.0-litre pure-petrol or -diesel engine. Calder argued that a diverse range of power sources is necessary to cater to the requirements of customers in such regions.