Government's EV sales mandate clarified up to 2030

Used as a road map by carmakers transitioning from ICE to electric cars, the ZEV mandate sets targets for the sales of EVs as a percentage of output. Starting next year, electric cars and vans must account for at least 22 per cent and 10 per cent respectively, of a manufacturer's total sales. 

By 2030, that figure will have lept to 80 per cent for cars and 70 per cent for vans, increasing incrementally to a 100 per cent switch to electricity by 2035. For reference, 20% of cars sold in August 2023 were electric.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: "The path to zero-emission vehicles announced today makes sure the route to get there is proportionate, pragmatic and realistic for families.

"Our mandate provides certainty for manufacturers, benefits drivers by providing more options and helps grow the economy by creating skilled jobs."

"We are also making it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle, from reaching record levels of charge points to providing tax relief for EV owners."

Currently, 48,100 public charge points are in the UK, catering for around 850,000 electric cars. Schemes introduced to encourage the sale of plug-in hybrids (but not EVs) include the plug-in van grant of up to £2,500 for small vans and £5,000 for large vans – both for vans that produce CO2s of less than 50g/km. Meanwhile, the electric vehicle charge point grant offers you up to £350 towards fitting a charge point if you own or rent a flat.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: "With less than 100 days to go, manufacturers finally have clarity on what they are required to sell next year and up to 2030. The industry is investing billions in decarbonisation and recognises the importance of this mechanism as the single most important measure to deliver net zero. Delivering the mandate will challenge the industry despite the flexibilities now included to support pragmatic, equitable delivery given this diverse sector.

"It is worth noting the mandate means the UK still retains the most ambitious transition timeline of any major market but without any private consumer incentives. Furthermore, the lack of a post-2030 regulatory framework creates investment uncertainty."

"Manufacturers offer a vast range of zero-emission vehicles, but demand must also match supply. We need a buoyant market that delivers fleet renewal at scale, ensures a vibrant used EV market and gives consumers confidence. This means an attractive package of fiscal and other incentives, mandated infrastructure targets and a consistent message that encourages drivers to switch now.”