UK Expected 2030 EV Target Cut to 60%

The UK government is expected to ease its electric-vehicle sales mandate, with reports suggesting the 2030 target could fall from 80% to about 60% and automakers could receive greater flexibility to comply through 2034. Ministers are due to discuss the changes, but the government says no decision has been made and maintains its commitment to the ZEV mandate. Carmakers say the quotas are running ahead of consumer demand and warn they will miss the 2026 target; industry forecasts put EVs at 27.2% of sales against the 33% requirement. A reduction could ease pressure on manufacturers but risks a backlash from Labour MPs and environmental groups, who warn it could undermine climate goals. The debate comes amid wider tensions over the government’s energy and climate decisions, including its approval of the Jackdaw gasfield. The current policy requires all new cars to be zero-emission by 2035, with new petrol- and diesel-only cars due to be phased out by 2030.