Industry reacts to news of 2030 postponement

author: FutureCar Staff    

The industry has been responding to reports that the government is considering pushing back the 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars to 2035, aligning with the rest of Europe.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, emphasized the importance of the decarbonization of road transport and the need for the automotive industry to invest in new electric vehicles. He acknowledged that the government has played a key role in attracting investment to the UK and stated that Britain has the potential to become a leader in zero-emission mobility.

However, Hawes noted that for this vision to become a reality, consumers need to be willing to make the switch to electric vehicles. He emphasized the need for a clear and consistent message from the government, as well as attractive incentives and reliable charging infrastructure. He warned that confusion and uncertainty will hinder the adoption of electric vehicles.

Lisa Brankin, Ford UK Chair, highlighted Ford's commitment to meeting the challenge of transitioning to electric vehicle sales by 2030. Ford has announced a global $50 billion investment in electrification and plans to launch nine electric vehicles by 2025. The company has already invested £430 million in its UK development and manufacturing facilities, with further funding planned for the 2030 timeframe.

Brankin emphasized that the UK's 2030 target is a crucial catalyst for Ford's transformation into a cleaner future. She called for ambition, commitment, and consistency from the UK government, stating that a relaxation of the 2030 target would undermine these necessary elements. She stressed the importance of focusing on bolstering the electric vehicle market in the short term, supporting consumers during challenging times such as the immaturity of infrastructure, potential tariffs, and high living costs.

FutureCar Staff