UK Urged to Hold Firm on EV Mandate as CO2 Data Shows Progress

Environmental groups and industry observers are pressing the UK government to resist any further dilution of its electric vehicle sales mandate, arguing that the policy is already delivering measurable cuts in carbon emissions. The call comes as newly surfaced figures highlight the CO2 reductions tied to the current rules.

At the centre of the debate is the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, which sets rising annual targets for the share of new cars and vans that must be battery-electric. Supporters say pulling back on those targets would slow the transition at precisely the moment the data shows the framework is working.

Critics of any loosening warn that investor confidence and charging investment both depend on a predictable regulatory path. Automakers, meanwhile, have pushed for flexibility, citing softer-than-expected consumer demand and cost pressures.

The outcome will shape how quickly the UK’s road fleet shifts away from petrol and diesel, and whether the country stays on track with its broader climate commitments.