The UK government has opened a consultation on its annual zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales requirements, following pressure from carmakers who say current targets are too ambitious.
The review could lower the 2030 requirement for fully electric cars from 80% to as little as 50% of new-car sales, according to government documents.
ZEV Mandate Under Review
The ZEV Mandate requires manufacturers to ensure a rising proportion of their annual new-car sales are zero-emission.
The current framework sets a 33% target for 2026 and 80% for 2030.
The proposed change to 50% is one option being examined, not a final decision. The consultation runs until late October.
Carmakers have argued that demand for electric vehicles has not kept pace with the mandated targets, making compliance costly.
Deadlines Remain Unchanged
The UK has confirmed that the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars and the 2035 ban on new hybrids remain in place.
The phase-out dates and the ZEV Mandate serve different roles: the dates set when sales must stop, while the mandate sets annual milestones leading up to them.
The consultation focuses on whether the current progression toward 2030 is practical for manufacturers under current market conditions.
No revised target has been confirmed yet. Until a decision is made, the existing mandate remains in effect.
The outcome will shape manufacturers' planning for future UK sales and could influence the mix of powertrains they prioritize.
