UK government launches review of electric car sales targets
Car changing is a big deal
The UK government has launched a review of electric car sales targets, but says the 2030 petrol and diesel phase-out remains on track.
The UK government is reviewing its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, asking carmakers, charging companies, dealers and consumers for their views on how the country should reach its targets for phasing out new petrol and diesel cars.
Launched today (14 August), the consultation will consider whether annual targets for manufacturers remain appropriate amid supply chain disruption, tariff uncertainty and difficult global economic conditions.
The government says the end goal hasn’t changed. New petrol and diesel cars are still due to be phased out by 2030, with all cars and vans required to be zero emission by 2035.
Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: “It’s right we keep targets under review to ensure they’re practical and back British industry. The end goal hasn’t changed – but we need to take business with us on the journey.”
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What is the ZEV mandate?
The ZEV mandate is a UK government policy that requires car manufacturers to sell a rising proportion of electric cars each year. This is currently around a third of sales and increases every year, reaching a target of 80% by 2030.
Manufacturers are currently on track to meet their 2026 targets, according to the government. But the review will consider whether future targets remain appropriate as the car industry changes.
What does it mean for drivers?
There’s no immediate change to the rules or the 2030 phase-out date. However, the review could eventually affect the availability, price and choice of new petrol, diesel and electric cars.
The announcement comes as EV sales continue to grow. More than one in four new cars sold in July were electric, with sales up 45% on July last year. More than two million EVs are now registered on UK roads.
The government also says its electric car grant, offering up to £3,750 towards a new EV, has helped more than 160,000 people switch since it launched last summer.
Drivers who charge at home can also save around £1,400 a year on running costs, according to the government, thanks to EV-specific tariffs that provide cheap electricity overnight.
Industry welcomes review
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the consultation is about “listening to industry, examining the evidence and making sure the mandate continues supporting investment, innovation and competitiveness, so Britain’s car sector can thrive”.
The government is investing £7.5bn in EV manufacturing, grants and charging infrastructure, including £600m for additional charge points.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), welcomed the review, calling it a “timely opportunity to adjust the transition so it works for all”.
He said the industry wanted a transition that supports “UK competitiveness, investment and jobs” while delivering greater choice and affordability for motorists.
The consultation is now open, giving manufacturers, businesses and consumers the chance to have their say on the future of the UK’s electric car rules. Responses must be submitted by 23 October 2026.
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