The UK government has initiated a consultation aimed at phasing out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, a move designed to provide clarity for manufacturers and the charging industry.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged the uncertainty that has plagued the automotive industry and emphasized the need for clearer direction moving forward.

As part of this consultation, car manufacturers have been given eight weeks to provide feedback on the phaseout, amid concerns about meeting sales quotas for electric vehicles (EVs).

This consultation follows a previous extension of the phase-out deadline to 2035 under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, indicating a shift in government policy under the current administration.

She also highlighted the economic opportunities associated with transitioning to electric vehicles, including reduced running costs and lower air pollution.

Currently, over two-thirds of UK car manufacturers, including major players like Nissan and Stellantis, have committed to a full transition to electric vehicles by 2030, although this has led to significant job cuts in the sector.

Despite aggressive discounts on electric vehicles, sales accounted for only 18.7% of the UK car market from January to November 2024, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the quotas.

The current Labour government has confirmed the 2030 ban on combustion engine cars but is considering allowing hybrid sales until 2035, potentially with emissions caps.

The Department for Transport is reassessing the viability of its goal to eliminate the sale of combustion engine cars by 2030 based on industry feedback.

To support this transition, the government plans to install an additional 100,000 electric vehicle chargers across England, enhancing the current infrastructure of over 72,000 public charging points.

The consultation also explores potential relaxations of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which currently requires manufacturers to increase electric car sales annually.

The consultation period is set to close on February 18, 2024, and aims to encourage long-term investments in the UK automotive industry by clarifying regulations.