The Zero Emission Vehicle mandate (ZEV) has been formalised as law, marking a pivotal step in the UK government's commitment to achieving a fully zero-emission automotive sector by 2035.
The ZEV law outlines stringent targets for the production of new zero-emission cars and vans, charting a progressive trajectory leading up to 2035. Manufacturers are now required to ensure that 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold in Great Britain are zero-emission by 2030. This figure is set to escalate to an ambitious 100% for both cars and vans by the final target year, 2035.
Technology and Decarbonisation Minister Anthony Browne emphasised the multifaceted advantages of this legislation. "Alongside the substantial £2bn investment in the electric vehicle transition, our zero emission vehicle mandate will further invigorate the economy," Browne stated. "It will support automotive manufacturers in safeguarding skilled British jobs, underpinning the robustness of the industry."
He highlighted the pivotal role of investment in the charging infrastructure, noting its recent growth. "Our commitment to bolstering the charging sector has already seen a commendable 44% expansion in the charging network since last year," he remarked. Browne also underlined the growing prominence of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the UK, which presently constitute over 16% of the new UK car market.
The enactment of the ZEV law was celebrated at a momentous event where Technology and Decarbonisation Minister Anthony Browne visited the new bp pulse hub in London. Akira Kirton, Vice President of bp pulse UK, expressed delight at hosting the minister, underscoring the significance of this milestone.
“This mandate instils confidence in our strategy, reaffirming our plans to invest £1 billion over 10 years to continue to develop hundreds of EV charging hubs across the country by 2030 to bolster the UK’s charging infrastructure.”
