Carmakers demand clarity as Sunak U-turn sows confusion
The Guardian|September 22, 2023
Carmakers in the UK will still have to sell electric vehicles from 1 January or face fines, despite Rishi Sunak's. U-turn on banning new petrol and diesel vehicles, under plans that are expected to be confirmed by ministers this week.
Gwyn Topham
Carmakers demand clarity as Sunak U-turn sows confusion

Manufacturers are calling for clarity and support, as the decision to press ahead with a mandate on car sales appears to clash with plans outlined on Wednesday by the prime minister, who said he would push back the date by which consumers will have to buy electric vehicles (EVS) by five years to 2035.

More than 20% of each manufacturer's new cars sold in 2024 must be zero-emission or they will potentially face fines of £15,000 a vehicle, under the targets proposed in a government consultation this year.

Ministers may decide to dilute the requirements but industry leaders have been told plans for some level of sales target are expected to be confirmed this week. It comes despite the prime minister's decision to upend important green policies including by scrapping the 2030 deadline for sales of new combustion engine cars.

The U-turn on 2030 has angered and perplexed much of the industry, which has been working towards the transition to electric but now faces further uncertainty over investment and a delay that could suppress demand for several years.

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FLERE HISTORIER FRA THE GUARDIANSe alt
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