The UK government plans to maintain its ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars until 2030, signaling its commitment to building a zero-emissions economy. Despite calls from some right-wing conservatives to delay the green commitment, automakers support the move as it adds stability to their plans to develop and produce electric vehicles.
The transition to electric vehicles is crucial to meeting climate targets and decarbonising road transport, which currently accounts for 20% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Mark Harper, a cabinet minister, highlighted the importance of cleaning cars and vans as a challenge and opportunity to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. He also stressed that the UK cannot afford to lose jobs, investment and automotive technology.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has voiced his support for motorists, stressing the need for a jobs boom and economic growth to reach the net zero emissions target. Despite pressure from rebel MPs, Sunak is sticking with a ban on petrol and diesel cars by 2030. Speaking at the Society of Car Manufacturers and Traders conference, Harper echoed the Prime Minister’s stance and underlined the government’s commitment to supporting motorists by encouraging the automotive sector to produce more environmentally friendly cars.
The expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) was seen as a key factor in the Conservative Party’s recent election victory. However, Sunak has made it clear that the government’s environmental goals should not be achieved at the expense of penalizing drivers or burdening bill payers. The focus is on enabling people to travel in a way that meets environmental goals while supporting the growth of the automotive industry.
