Britain considers easing 2030 zero-emission vehicle targets

Britain has outlined options that could ease pressure on automakers to shift new vehicle sales toward zero-emission models, launching a review of existing targets that gradually phase out new petrol and diesel cars. The mandate, introduced in 2024, requires carmakers to increase the share of annual sales that are zero-emission vehicles, with EVs at 33% of new car sales in 2026, 80% in 2030 and 100% by 2035. The policy includes fines for manufacturers that miss targets. Automakers argue supply chain disruptions and weak consumer demand make compliance difficult. A government consultation opened Friday seeking views on four alternative pathways: three keep the 2035 endpoint but cut the 2030 target to 50%, while a fourth maintains the existing path with added flexibility. The Department for Transport said the UK is reviewing the system to keep it pro-business amid tariff and trade uncertainty. Battery EVs were 27.4% of new registrations in July, according to New AutoMotive data.