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Ford UK has urged the UK government to introduce incentives to increase electric vehicle (EV) sales, as concerns grow within the auto industry over ambitious EV sales targets.
Lisa Brankin, Ford UK’s chair and managing director, stated, “Without demand, a government mandate to produce and sell more EVs just doesn’t work.”
The government plans to phase out new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030, with rising annual zero-emission sales quotas and significant penalties for non-compliance.
EVs must comprise 22% of car sales in 2024, increasing to 28% by 2025, with fines of £15,000 per car for falling short.
Ford, which recently announced 800 UK job cuts over three years, has invested over £350m in electrification.
Industry figures argue demand is lagging behind targets, leading manufacturers to discount EVs or buy compliance credits from companies like Tesla.
While EV sales are growing—they made up 20% of new car registrations in October—sources claim this is unsustainable due to heavy discounting.
At the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) dinner, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds acknowledged concerns, announcing plans for a consultation to address industry feedback but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the 2030 deadline.
The SMMT has called for urgent action, warning that weak EV demand and stringent quotas could jeopardise business viability and jobs. |
