In a world increasingly focused on combatting climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the UK has proudly been at the forefront of environmental policy with its ambitious plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. However, this has taken a set back following the announcement that the UK government is pushing back this ban to 2035.
One of the most significant concerns associated with delaying the ban on petrol and diesel cars is the impact on the environment. The transportation sector is a major contributor to carbon emissions and transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) is a crucial step in reducing these emissions. By postponing the ban, the UK risks missing its emissions reduction targets, potentially leading to long-term environmental consequences.
However, this delay in the ban may could be considered a necessary step to allow the industry more time to adjust and transition to electric and hybrid vehicles which in turn will support consumers with their conversion to EV motoring.
Consumers make purchasing decisions based on the availability and affordability of products. Delaying the petrol and diesel ban could potentially influence consumers to continue buying internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, as the pressure to turn to EV or hybrids has been eased. For many who have been cautious about making the change, this is no bad thing as it allows for more support and information from manufactures and car experts to help educate them on everything they need to know and understand.
One of the biggest blocks to people moving to EVs has been the perceived lack of infrastructure to support the charging of vehicles. A delay in the ban will enable more time to build the necessary charging networks, making it easier for consumers to adopt EVs.
Finally, advancements in battery technology and electric vehicle development are happening rapidly. This delay will allow the UK to benefit from these advances, potentially leading to more affordable and efficient EVs for consumers.
So, while the delay of the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by five years is a complex and controversial one its important to reflect that there are positives to be had for consumers.
Remember, at Leasing Options we have a dedicated team of experts on hand to answer all your EV and hybrid questions. If you have any questions following this announcement, then please do get in touch with our team here