Ian Plummer, Commercial Director at Auto Trader, commented on the ZEV mandate news:

Confirmation of the ZEV mandate at least gives the industry the clarity it needs, even though some manufacturers will struggle to hit these targets as they are behind the curve on EV sales. To close the gap and avoid fines, we could see prices come down to encourage consumer demand.

Key spokesperson

Ian Plummer

Commercial Director

CONNECT

“But combined with the delay to the ban on new diesel and petrol sales until 2035, the Government is sending mixed messages in a crucial policy area. The key now will be to support consumers in making the switch. That won’t be easy given the current barriers of high upfront cost and charging infrastructure – despite the significant savings to be made from running an EV.”

“When it comes to the vans mandate, the softening of the annual targets is a pragmatic step that will provide much needed breathing room for certain manufacturers. It also gives the fleet and business sectors – the biggest van buyers – more choice while electric van technology catches up with business requirements, and electric vans become more affordable for small businesses.”