Announcing the shift in policy yesterday, the changes also include a delay to the proposed ban on off-grid oil boilers, as well as scrapping policy that would require landlords to make efficiency upgrades to their properties.
: discover the models that aced our lab testsWhat did the Prime Minister announce?
The policy shift will see new conventional petrol and diesel cars remain available for five years longer than originally planned under the 2030 moratorium introduced by Mr Sunak’s predecessor, Boris Johnson – which, until very recently, still had Government backing.
Mr Sunak stated he would prefer consumers to lead the transition to electric motoring, rather than be dictated to by government. He cited concerns about purchase prices, which remain comparatively high, as well as implications for small businesses and the immaturity of the UK’s public charging network.
The sale of new hybrid cars, which was originally set to be phased out in 2035, was not specifically mentioned, but it is expected that this deadline will remain.
How has the car industry reacted?
There has been significant opposition to the new plans, with fears of uncertainty for business, as well as the UK losing credibility globally for rolling-back on previously firm climate-change commitments.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which represents the UK motoring industry, was similarly critical. SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, said: 'The automotive industry has and continues to invest billions in new electric vehicles as the decarbonisation of road transport is essential if net zero is to be delivered… To make this a reality, however, consumers must want to make the switch, which requires from Government a clear, consistent message, attractive incentives and charging infrastructure that gives confidence rather than anxiety. Confusion and uncertainty will only hold them back.'
There are fears that the new 2035 ban will lead to reduced uptake of electric vehicles, slowing down the momentum that has been built up in this market. RAC head of policy, Simon Williams, suggested that government may want to consider 'reintroducing a form of the plug-in-car grant that incentivises the cheaper end of the car market'.
: get our top tips on getting the best price for your carWhich? Director of Policy and Advocacy, Rocio Concha, voiced similar concerns: 'Weakening the government's green targets risks endangering the business investment that consumers need to play their part in tackling climate change.
'Consumers need businesses to continue investing in new low carbon products and services, so the transition is as affordable and easy as possible. That includes the continued development of electric vehicles and improvement of the EV charging infrastructure'.
Organisations representing the interests of the petrol industry have been less scathing. The Petrol Retailers Association, which represents forecourts across the UK, said: 'The Prime Minister’s announcement today reflects the reality of the delays in meeting infrastructure targets.
'The widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the UK can’t be realistically achieved without the corresponding charging network to accommodate it. Delays in infrastructure targets and questions around alternative methods of tax to compensate for the loss of fuel duty revenue and VAT have cast a shadow over the 2030 deadline.'
Should I still consider an electric car?
Despite the issues facing the mass adoption of electric vehicles, they are enjoying increasing popularity. SMMT sales data shows that in the year to date, 193,221 new battery powered vehicles were sold in the UK. That’s a 40.5% increase on the same period last year and the largest by any one fuel type. Comparatively, sales of petrol cars rose only 13%, while those of diesel vehicles was down by 17.5%.
Thankfully, range anxiety, which was a significant hurdle for EV adopters, is becoming less of an issue, thanks to larger batteries and more efficient electric motors. However, our lab tests have revealed some new models that will struggle to cover even 120 miles.
source https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/government-delays-ban-on-new-petrol-and-diesel-cars-aS7HJ8O5JC3q