The Renewable Energy Association (REA) has called on the Government to remain resolute on the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, arguing that it will reduce air pollution and help save lives.
In its response to the consultation on proposals to support the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles, the REA strongly opposes the inclusion of full hybrid vehicles as the CO2 emissions from HEVs have a significantly higher CO2 emissions range and ultimately their electric batteries are powered by petrol and diesel.
The trade association is also opposed to the increasing of flexibilities around the annual targets beyond 2026, which currently include carbon trading and ‘borrowing’ credits from future years.
According to UK government data, air pollution is estimated to cause between 28,000 and 36,000 excess deaths in the UK annually, making it the biggest environmental threat to public health in the country.
The REA’s Head of Transport and Innovation Matthew Adams said:
“If the Government is serious about reaching its zero-emissions targets then it must remain steadfast in its commitments and keep the ZEV mandate as is.
“This isn’t the time to bow down to the demands of certain vehicle manufacturers and any ‘zero emission’ ambition must align with the technology that will help us get there. That’s battery electric vehicles and not full hybrid vehicles, which are essentially petrol vehicles in all but name.
“An impactful ZEV mandate should always ensure that policy is implemented that maximises carbon emission savings. Increasing flexibilities will result in slower uptake of EVs, reducing the immediate impact on air quality we need to save lives today.
“By sticking to their guns, the Government will show that they’re serious about their clean transport and energy plans and this will ultimately have a huge, positive impact on air quality leading to a healthier and wealthier nation.”
In December, the government launched its consultation into the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate – asking for industry input into the delivery of its zero-emissions targets.
The REA has now submitted its response to the Government consultation on proposals to support the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles, incorporating feedback and insights from its members.
In a wide-ranging response, the REA has put forward the following recommendations:
- A new fund for depot charging, to overcome grid connection issues.
- Increased credits for V2G compatible vehicles.
- Increased credits for vehicles with tyre particulate capture fitted for fleet vehicles.
- Mandatory salary sacrifice for medium and large businesses.
- Increase Road Fuel Duty.
- Get on with battery health certificates.
- Get on with the Commercial Zero Emission Vehicle Implementation Hub.
- Don’t introduce tariffs.
- Increase the rapid charging fund to include HGV charging infrastructure.
- Increase and extend the Cross Pavement grant.
- Introduce a government backed loan scheme for consumers to buy EVs.
- Adopt a right charge point, right place approach, including allowing CPOs to identify and install in the most impactful places in each constituency through a lotting model.
Adams added:
“Reaching net zero will require collaboration on a scale that has never been seen before. The transport and energy sectors are responsible for roughly two-thirds of global greenhouse gas emissions; with many of these emissions stemming from energy production and usage across various sectors, including transportation.
“Our members represent many of the businesses and organisations who are tasked with trying to reduce emissions. By implementing our recommendations and sticking to their guns with the ZEV mandate the government can make the UK a leader in zero-emissions transport with the country benefiting from all the health and economic opportunities that will be brought about from this.
“If it doesn’t then all the progress that has been made with the rollout of charging infrastructure and increased sales of EVs will be at risk, creating uncertainty in the market. In our view, the choice is an obvious and stark one.”
You can read the REA’s full response to the ZEV mandate consultation here: https://www.r-e-a.net/rea-response-to-phasing-out-the-sale-of-new-petrol-and-diesel-cars-from-2030/
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