Carmakers Demand Policy Consistency as UK Government Faces Pressure to Delay Ban on Petrol and Diesel Cars

British carmakers are calling on the government to maintain its climate policy and not delay the proposed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. Reports have suggested that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak may push back the ban by five years to 2035, prompting concerns from the automotive industry. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), along with major automakers including Ford, Peugeot, Vauxhall, Stellantis, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volkswagen UK, have released statements asking for policy certainty and consistency, expressing concerns that delaying the ban would undermine the industry's transformation towards zero-emission vehicles.

There has been speculation over the government's position on its green pledges following the ruling Conservative party's narrow win in a July by-election due to local opposition to a low emission zone. Transport Secretary Mark Harper had previously confirmed the 2030 ban at an auto industry conference, and any delay risks the UK's international investment credibility and the energy transition. The car industry has also criticized the lack of clarity over the government's zero emission vehicles (ZEV) rules.