In a potential policy shift that could have major implications for the UK automotive industry, the government is considering loosening electric vehicle (EV) rules to allow the sale of hybrid models like the Toyota Prius until 2035. The fast-tracked review of the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate comes amid pushback from carmakers who argue that consumer demand for pure electric cars remains lower than anticipated.
The proposed change would give manufacturers more flexibility as they navigate the challenging transition away from petrol and diesel engines. While the industry generally supports the goal of reaching 80% battery electric vehicle sales by 2030, many argue that hybrids like the Prius—which use a conventional engine alongside a battery—can serve as a crucial bridge technology.
A Lifeline for Hybrids?
Under the current ZEV mandate, electric cars must make up 22% of new vehicle sales this year, rising to 28% by 2025. Carmakers face steep fines of up to £15,000 per vehicle if they miss these targets. But the mandate’s future is now in question as the government launches a consultation on what types of EVs can be sold after the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars takes effect.
According to reports, Transport Secretary Louise Haigh is open to allowing the sale of full hybrid models post-2030. This would be welcome news for companies like Toyota, which pioneered the technology with its popular Prius. Unlike plug-in hybrids that have larger batteries and can be charged at power points, full hybrids rely on their engines to recharge—resulting in lower electric-only range but also lower costs.
Industry Pressures Mount
The potential policy shift comes as carmakers grapple with slowing EV sales and a weak economic outlook. Last week, Ford announced 4,000 job cuts across Europe, citing the need to reduce costs. Stellantis, owner of Vauxhall, followed with 1,100 UK job cuts, blaming the ZEV mandate.
We want to make the electric transition as easy as possible for drivers and continue to support the development of the charging network. Our ZEV mandate is among the most ambitious in the world and we remain committed to delivering cleaner air whilst minimising costs for consumers.
– Transportation Ministry spokesperson
While environmentalists argue that any weakening of the ZEV mandate would be a step backwards, the industry contends that a more flexible approach could ultimately accelerate the shift to cleaner vehicles by making the transition more affordable and accessible for consumers.
Balancing Act
The debate over hybrids goes to the heart of the challenges facing policymakers as they seek to rapidly decarbonize road transport. On one side are those who believe that only a swift and complete shift to pure battery electrics can put the UK on track to meet its climate targets. Others argue that a more gradual transition that takes consumer preferences and industry realities into account will be more sustainable in the long run.
Ultimately, the government will need to balance these competing priorities as it finalizes any changes to the ZEV mandate. With the consultation now underway, all eyes will be on whether the UK decides to give vehicles like the Prius a temporary reprieve—or recommit to a purely electric future.
Key Takeaways
- The UK is considering allowing sales of hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius until 2035
- The move would loosen current electric vehicle rules and zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate targets
- Carmakers are lobbying for changes amid slowing EV sales and a weak economic outlook
- Critics argue any weakening of the ZEV mandate would undermine UK climate goals
- The government must balance decarbonization targets with consumer and industry needs as it finalizes its policy
