The BVRLA has submitted its response to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, which sets targets for the sale of new zero emission cars and vans.
The Mandate requires manufacturers to sell a rising proportion of their total UK sales as ZEVs each year to meet the UK’s 2030/2035 phase-out targets. Manufacturers are awarded credits for every ZEV sold into the UK. The ZEV mandate will be introduced into the UK from January 2024. It will operate under the powers of the Climate Change Act.
Generally, BVRLA members want to see certainty as soon as possible with a finalised ZEV sales mandate.
Some key areas of the response:
Vans
- The BVRLA response flags that the van sector is struggling in the move to zero emission vehicles, while highlighting its importance in the industry’s wider transition
- The association flagged key concerns around the van transition and encouraged the Department for Transport (DfT) to build a mandate that ensures fleets will be able to access affordable fit for purpose zero emission vans.
Additional credits for manufacturers supplying vehicles to car clubs
- The BVRLA has welcomed the additional credit that is given to manufacturers who supply vehicles to car clubs but stressed the need for the rules around this to work in practice. Any additional credit administration must align with commercial realities. The BVRLA is in ongoing discussions with DfT as it provides further guidance.
- The association has also suggested that this should be subject to review and has asked DfT to consider broadening the additional credit to rental.
Additional credits for manufacturers supplying Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
- The BVRLA has welcomed the additional credits given to manufacturers who supply vehicles which are adapted for wheelchair users. Again, the response asks that this is subject to review and the potential to open this up further if there is a need to do so.
ZEV sales mandate review
- As this ground-breaking new policy measure is implemented, an ongoing review process will be essential.
- The response calls on DfT to adopt a process where the views of the end users can be gathered, and any potential blind spots identified. The BVRLA Road to Zero Report Card should be an effective tool to help DfT monitor the impact of the ZEV sales mandate.
DfT will publish a summary of responses, including next steps, following the closure of the consultation.
