Official: ZEV mandate confirms car makers must sell 22% EVs in 2024

“We are also making it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle, from reaching record levels of charge points to providing tax relief for EV owners.”

Speaking previously, Harper, who called the mandate “one of the most advanced and ambitious regulatory schemes of its kind in the world”, said: “This government wants to back motorists to travel how they want, where they want, and when they want to. 

“Our job is to make sure they do all of those things in a way that is consistent with our environmental results – and that's what we are about to do.”

Today’s announcement follows concern from car manufacturers that the lack of clarity over the mandate had left them unsure which models they would be able to sell between 2030 and 2035.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) chief Mike Hawes, who had been one of those critical of the government’s delayed mandate, welcomed the documents.

"With less than 100 days to go, manufacturers finally have clarity on what they are required to sell next year and up to 2030. The industry is investing billions in decarbonisation and recognises the importance of this mechanism as the single most important measure to deliver net zero. Delivering the mandate will challenge the industry, despite the flexibilities now included to support pragmatic, equitable delivery given this diverse sector.

“It is worth noting the mandate means the UK still retains the most ambitious transition timeline of any major market but without any private consumer incentives. Furthermore, the lack of a post-2030 regulatory framework creates investment uncertainty.

“Manufacturers offer a vast range of zero-emission vehicles, but demand must also match supply. We need a buoyant market that delivers fleet renewal at scale, ensures a vibrant used EV market and gives consumers confidence. This means an attractive package of fiscal and other incentives, mandated infrastructure targets and a consistent message that encourages drivers to switch now.”

In response to the news, Ford UK boss Lisa Brankin, who last week was very critical of the government's 2030 ICE ban delay, said: “Ford’s electric vehicle plans in Europe are unwavering and we will offer an exciting all-electric car line-up by 2030. Ford has backed plans for a UK zero-emission vehicle mandate because it provides a strong investment signal to infrastructure providers to accelerate installation of new charge points. Alongside the SMMT, Ford has provided input to the Department for Transport to help shape the mandate in the early years and it is very welcome to see some of those ideas reflected.

“With a potential 10% tariff on European-built electric vehicles from January under the UK-EU trade deal, more needs to be done to make the switch easier for customers. Tariffs will hit both UK and EU manufacturers so it is vital that both sides come to the table to agree a solution.”