60% UK EV targets expected to ease pressure on industry despite Labour MPs’ protests

Expected changes to EV rules

Government sources say Haigh is expected to approve a reduction of about a quarter in the EV sales target. Insiders say the 2030 requirement may fall to around 60%, with flexibilities extended until 2034.

Carmakers cite pressure

Carmakers have argued that the interim targets are unattainable, pointing to higher inflation and pressure on living standards. The rules also include exemptions that can help manufacturers avoid fines, including selling more hybrids or making up for lower EV sales later.

The government began another review in August, setting out five main options. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has argued for lowering the 2030 target as far as 50%.

MPs raise climate concerns

Morecambe and Lunesdale MP Lizzi Collinge said the ZEV mandate decision could have a major climate impact. Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes said the mandate should remain and Rosebank should be rejected.

Investment and decision process

ChargeUK chief executive Shane Brennan warned that weakening the mandate puts £1.7bn of charging infrastructure at risk, along with related jobs and supply-chain spending. Paul McNamee, director of the Labour Climate and Environment Forum, said a significant reduction from the 80% target would be seen as a retreat from climate leadership.

The prime minister would normally have resolved the internal dispute, but Burnham has recused himself because his wife, Marie-France van Heel, advises the board of Manchester-based charging network Be.EV. Haigh is understood to have told colleagues she does not want further demands for target reductions.