UK government consults on cutting 2030 electric vehicle sales target from 80% to 50%

The UK has launched a review of its Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, proposing to reduce the 2030 pure electric vehicle sales target from 80% to as low as 50%, with consultation running until late October. Under the current policy, manufacturers must meet rising annual EV quotas starting at 22% in 2024 and reaching 33% in 2026, but the revised target would allow hybrids to make up the remaining 50% of sales. The 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel only cars remains in place.

Why it matters: A lower EV sales mandate could slow the rollout of public and workplace charging infrastructure if fleet electrification timelines are extended, affecting procurement volumes and site development schedules. Conversely, a shift toward hybrids may reduce immediate demand for rapid charging hubs, altering the business case for charge point operators planning network expansion to 2030.