Rishi Sunak to Delay Ban on Sale of New Petrol and Diesel Cars, Weakening Net Zero Measures: What You Need to Know
Are you ready for the future of transportation in the UK? Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, is reportedly set to delay the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars that was due to come into force in 2030. This decision has sparked controversy among environmental campaigners and politicians, who are concerned about the impact on efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.
The original plan was to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, but Sunak is expected to push this date back to 2035. This delay comes at a time when electric vehicle (EV) sales have been on the rise, with more EVs sold in 2021 than in the previous five years combined. Electric cars are not only kinder to the planet but also cheaper to run, making them an attractive option for many consumers.
The move to ban petrol and diesel cars is part of a larger effort to transition to a carbon-neutral society. Polluting cars and vans are responsible for a significant portion of carbon emissions in the UK, and air pollution is linked to thousands of deaths each year. By phasing out fossil-fuel vehicles, the government aims to reduce emissions and improve air quality for all.
While the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will not affect existing vehicles, there may come a time when the use of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars is limited due to factors such as high taxes, fuel costs, and emission zones. The government is also considering phasing out the sale of new fossil-fuelled motorbikes and mopeds by 2035, further accelerating the transition to zero-emission travel.
Car manufacturers have mixed reactions to the government’s plans, with some already committed to ending ICE sales by 2030. Volvo and Bentley, for example, have set ambitious targets for transitioning to electric vehicles in the coming years. The car industry acknowledges the challenges ahead but is supportive of the government’s efforts to decarbonize road transport.
As the UK moves towards a greener future, the expansion of the public charging network will be crucial to support the growing number of EVs on the road. Addressing issues such as cost, range anxiety, and charging infrastructure will be key to ensuring the success of the electric revolution. Are you ready to embrace the future of transportation?