UK EV industry and think tanks urge government to maintain commitment to ZEV mandate

• 14 NGOs, think tanks, and campaign groups urge the UK Government to uphold the ZEV mandate.
• The mandate has increased EV supply, lowered prices, and positioned the UK ahead of European markets.
• The groups urge the Government to boost EV demand through funding for chargepoints and electric vehicle tax incentives.

Groups call for continued support of ZEV mandate to boost EV growth and climate action

A group of 14 NGOs, think tanks, and campaign groups has urged the UK Government to maintain its commitment to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate. In a letter to the Transport Secretary, the organisations stress the importance of upholding the current targets and penalties for car manufacturers. They warn against weakening the regulation, arguing that doing so could undermine progress in reducing carbon emissions.

The groups believe the mandate is one of the UK’s most effective climate policies

It has helped boost the availability of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK, pushing the country ahead of major European markets. The mandate has also made EVs more affordable, as more models become available and prices continue to drop.

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However, uncertainty about the future of the mandate is putting vital investments at risk. The letter highlights that the charging sector alone has committed £6 billion in investments. These investments are based on the current regulation, and any changes could cause uncertainty, potentially harming the UK’s position as a hub for clean technology.

The groups also pointed out that the current flexibilities within the ZEV mandate are sufficient. They argue that no additional flexibility is needed after the first three years, as manufacturers have enough time to meet the targets.

Instead of weakening the mandate, the organisations called on the government to increase public confidence in EVs. These policies could include boosting funding for charge point installations and offering incentives like tax breaks for electric company cars.

Organisations including T&E UK, Greenpeace, EVA England, New AutoMotive, Electric Vehicles UK, FairCharge, Campaign for Better Transport, Green Alliance, Clean Cities Campaign, Social Market Foundation, Friends of the Earth, Climate Group, Onward, and ClientEarth signed the letter.

Maintaining the ZEV mandate is seen as crucial for the UK’s climate goals and economic growth. Download the letter to find out more.