The UK government has reasserted its commitment to phasing out petrol and diesel cars in bold contrast to emerging moves in Brussels to relax similar policies. Downing Street insisted on Friday that the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 and all non-zero emission car and van sales by 2035 remains unchanged, despite mounting industry pressure and shifting regulatory winds in the European Union.
A government spokesperson emphasised that the UK's electrification strategy would continue with robust support measures, including increased incentives for electric vehicle (EV) purchases and tightening mandates requiring a rising share of zero-emission car sales. Critics, however, warn that the divergence between Westminster and Brussels could strain the UK's automotive supply chains, given their deep integration with continental manufacturers.
