The government looks to be bowing under pressure to water down the zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate. This policy is the central pillar to reducing emissions from cars and vans, which make up nearly a fifth of the UK’s total emissions.

Currently, the ZEV mandate ensures that 80 per cent of new car sales and 70 per cent of new van sales will be zero emission by 2030. However, the government is reportedly set to start a consultation on reducing the targets to 50 per cent.

Our analysis finds that this watering down could leave us needing to remove the equivalent of an extra 70 million tonnes of carbon dioxide during the seventh carbon budget period (2038-42). It’s not clear if the government has an alternative plan for how to address these extra emissions and remain compliant with climate targets.

For more information, contact:
George James, policy analyst