The UK has confirmed it will proceed with banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, even as the European Union moves toward relaxing its own emissions targets. The decision comes as the European Parliament's Environment Committee (ENVI) has proposed lowering CO2 reduction goals for new cars to 87.5% by 2030, down from the current 100% target.
For vans, the committee voted to back a 35% reduction target by 2030, compared with 50% under existing rules. The proposed changes would also reduce the 2035 target from 100% to 80%, allowing manufacturers to continue producing a limited number of combustion engine vehicles alongside electric cars. Additionally, the committee has suggested modifying the definition of "zero-emission vehicles" to include both electric vehicles and cars running on certain renewable and low-carbon fuels.
EU Committee Backs Softer Emissions Targets
MEP Massimiliano Salini supported the new plan, stating: "Our agreement marks a turning point for the European automotive industry. Registering combustion engine cars without compensation obligations would remain possible, protecting technological freedom and restoring prospects for the entire supply chain."
Salini added: "Decarbonisation does not mean imposing one technology – we also recognise as zero-emission vehicles powered exclusively by renewable fuels that comply with the renewable energy directive, similar to electric ones."
UK Reviews ZEV Mandate Amid Industry Pressure
Meanwhile, the UK is reviewing its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate targets following calls from manufacturers and the car industry to update them. Under current rules, UK car companies must ensure that 80% of cars are zero-emission by 2030, with 100% of cars by 2035.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), previously suggested that no car brands believed the current 2030 targets were achievable. There have been suggestions that ministers are considering reducing ZEV Mandate targets, which could provide a boost for manufacturers.
Consultation Underway, No Policy Decisions Yet
A consultation on the issue was put together this autumn, although officials have recently confirmed that no policy decisions have been made. The Department for Transport stressed that consultation responses will inform the long-committed review of the ZEV Mandate, ensuring the plan takes a pragmatic and balanced approach to the transition.
A DfT spokesperson recently said: "It has never been easier or cheaper to own an EV – with sales up by 36% in September thanks to our £7.5 billion investment in the market, and nearly 2 million EV drivers saving up to £1,750 a year in running costs."
The spokesperson added: "We recognise manufacturers are facing challenges, and are listening to them as we review the Mandate to ensure it continues to deliver for British consumers and industry."
However, the DfT has repeatedly stressed it remains committed to phasing out new internal combustion petrol and diesel engines by 2030, with the UK's position on the ban remaining unchanged despite the EU's potential shift.
