EV sales rise but challenges remain as industry faces 2025 targets

SMMT calls for government support to accelerate EV adoption and meet ambitious targets

EV sales rise but challenges remain as industry faces 2025 targets
Image: Bigstock.

Despite record EV registrations in 2024, reaching nearly 382,000 units, the automotive industry faces significant challenges in meeting the government’s ambitious Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate targets.

While EV sales increased, they accounted for only 10% of private car purchases, with petrol remaining the dominant fuel choice. This shortfall occurred despite significant manufacturer incentives, including an estimated £4.5 billion in price cuts.

The ZEV Mandate requires 28% of new car sales to be electric in 2025, a substantial increase. This, coupled with a slower-than-expected growth in public charging infrastructure, presents a significant challenge for the industry.

The LCV market also faces challenges, with only 6.3% of van sales being electric in 2024, falling short of the 10% target.

The SMMT has called for urgent government support, including increased consumer incentives, improved charging infrastructure, and a reduction in the cost of energy.

“We need rapid results from the government’s review of the ZEV Mandate,” said Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the SMMT. “The industry has invested heavily in the transition to EVs, and we need the government to support these efforts to ensure we meet our ambitious targets.”

The SMMT also highlighted the importance of developing and implementing connected and automated mobility (CAM) technologies. The UK has the potential to become a global leader in CAM, with benefits including improved road safety and economic growth.

The SMMT emphasised the need for government support to accelerate the development and deployment of CAM technologies, building upon the framework established by the Automated Driving Act 2024.

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