The United Kingdom’s government is under scrutiny after reports that it may reduce its 2030 electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. While the long‑term goal of 100% EVs by 2035 is expected to stay, the 2030 milestone could be lowered to 70% or even 50% of new car sales, according to a recent consultation that concluded on Friday.
Experts warn that such a shift would have serious environmental consequences. The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) estimates that a 50% target could add 147 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent to the country’s emissions. This figure is roughly 58% of the emissions projected from burning oil produced by the Rosebank field.
Jess Ralston, an analyst with the ECIU, cautioned that easing the target would not address the challenges faced by car manufacturers. “They are already under pressure from Chinese competitors as more consumers choose EVs,” Ralston said. “Lowering the requirement would not help the public either, since EVs are cheaper to run—about £1,750 a year less than combustion‑engine cars, and that advantage grows as oil prices rise.”
The proposed changes come amid a broader debate over the UK’s climate strategy. Critics argue that weakening the EV mandate would undermine the country’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and could delay the transition to cleaner transportation.
Source: The Guardian World
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