The ban is currently due to come into force in 2030, although certain hybrid powertrains capable of "significant zero emissions" will be allowed until 2035. But that date has been thrown into doubt again, with the BBC reporting that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is planning to delay a number of key "green" policies that are part of his goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
It is understood that the government could push back the introduction of the non-zero emission car ban from 2030 until 2035, although final decisions on which policies will change have yet to be made. The announcement is set to come in a speech that the prime minister will give on Friday (September 22).
The 2030 target was originally introduced in 2020 and was a key aspect of then Prime Minister Boris Johnson's vision for a "green revolution". The deadline was originally seen as a more aggressive target than the European Union's plan, which aims to mandate zero emissions for new cars sold after 2035, effectively phasing out the sale of new gasoline and diesel models.
While Sunak's office declined to comment on speculation, a government spokesperson reiterated the government's steadfast commitment to net-zero targets. The spokesperson emphasized that the government's approach would prioritize pragmatism to ensure that costs do not fall on hard-working British families, while remaining resolute in achieving net-zero emissions.
Sources: Autocar, Autonews Europe
