A leading motoring expert has warned that thousands of motorists may not receive their new petrol cars because automotive brands aim to avoid fines from new electric vehicle targets.
The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate has become a point of controversy in recent months as brands struggle to sell enough electric cars ahead of the first deadline.
By the end of the year, major brands are required to have 22 per cent of car sales come from zero emission vehicles, as well as a 10 per cent deadline for non-polluting vans.
These targets will continue to rise over the coming years, requiring brands to reach at least 28 per cent by the end of 2025, before reaching 80 per cent in 2030.
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The expert claimed petrol cars cannot be sent to customers because brands are worried about ZEV mandate fines
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If manufacturers fail to meet these targets, they could face strict penalties, including a fine of up to £15,000 per polluting vehicle over the target.
This has caused friction between certain brands and the UK, including Vauxhall owner Stellantis, which recently announced it would be shutting its Luton van plant and moving all EV-related operations to Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.
Now, Robert Forrester, chief executive of car retailer Vertu Motors, has warned that the ZEV mandate could mean motorists do not receive their newly purchased vehicles until next year.
He said customers had purchased petrol cars, but claimed the keys “cannot be handed over” because manufacturers want to avoid fines relating to the ZEV mandate.
He added: “Christmas is coming and there will be thousands of car customers of different dealerships around the UK who cannot take delivery of their cars because they are being held over until January and the new ‘quota year’. It’s rationing by the back door,” Auto Express reported.
Manufacturers are able to trade ZEV credits with other brands to avoid fines, which could be particularly useful for EV-only companies like Tesla and Polestar.
However, this has been criticised by some amid fears brands would be subsidising the development of electric vehicles and related infrastructure in other countries.
Other experts have also accused the Government of dragging its heels amid suggestions it could amend the terms and conditions of the ZEV mandate to appease complaining manufacturers.
Business Secretary Jonathan Ashworth confirmed that the Government would move forward with plans to fast-track a consultation to see whether any changes should be made.
However, these plans may have been held up following the resignation of Transport Secretary Louise Haigh over claims she did not reveal all of the details about a conviction prior to becoming an MP.
Forrester added: “My own firm leads the sector in the number of EVs it sells, but it is still nowhere near the Government’s arbitrary targets.
“Ministers have only talked to manufacturers and have spurned all my requests for a meeting to explain the consequences for your neighbourhood car dealer.”
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Car brands could face a fine of £15,000 per vehicle if they fail to adhere to ZEV mandate targets
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A Government spokesperson told GB News that it was planning to set out further details about the ZEV mandate and the 2030 car ban “in due course”.
They added: “We’re committed to delivering greener transport by supporting the transition to electric vehicles.
“We will provide certainty to manufacturers by restoring the 2030 phase-out date for new petrol and diesel cars, and are committed to accelerating the rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.”