In the United Kingdom (UK) parliamentary elections on 4th July, Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, was elected Prime Minister.
This victory, which ended 14 years of Conservative rule, not only marks a radical shift in British politics but also in the e-mobility sector. Why?
“The new government is showing a greater commitment to environmental leadership in the UK and associated policies,” comments Ashvin Suri, Founder & Director at e-zoomed, a leading electric mobility platform.
However, Suri explains to Mobility Portal Europe that there needs to be “no more mixed signals from the government.”
What does he mean by this?
“During the election campaign, they suggested that they would move the date of the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle ban back to 2030,” recalls the Director of e-zoomed.
“However, as of yet, we have not seen any announcement from the government confirming that they will deliver on this promise,” he adds.
It is worth noting that the initial ban on ICE vehicles was set for 2030, but the previous government moved the date to 2035.
“This was a significant error in judgment. It needs to be moved back to 2030 as originally planned,” emphasises Suri.
The fact is that by banning combustion vehicles from 2030, the government would be giving original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as car manufacturers and charge point manufacturers, a clear signal on the “direction of travel,” so they know where to invest their capital.
“Clear signals also help consumers and businesses make the decision to adopt cleaner forms of transport, such as electric cars, electric vans, and electric buses,” he indicates.
eMobility sector calls for stable and long-term government policies
“We need more stable and long-term government policies regarding the migration to electric vehicles (EVs),” highlights Suri.
The Director underscores the necessity for incentives to encourage the purchase of EVs and charging stations, as well as to promote the adoption of residential solar panels and batteries.
“All of this is crucial for achieving zero-emission electric driving ‘from well-to-wheel.’ If the above is not done, we will not achieve our climate objectives in the UK,” Suri laments.
It is worth noting that the call for incentives for eMobility is a common demand from the sector.
“With the global industry shifting towards electric vehicle production and manufacturers tending to locate close to where their products are sold, the new government must create the conditions for mass EV adoption in Britain,” said Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
“Accelerating EV adoption requires a bold plan to make zero-emission mobility possible for all, with purchase incentives, fairer VAT on public charging, and infrastructure rolled out across the country,” he added.
Hawes also emphasised the need for a plan to decarbonise light and heavy commercial vehicles, along with a specific infrastructure strategy.
“Automakers have invested enormous amounts in the transition to net zero emissions over the past decade, and while the commitments made in 2023 were a massive vote of confidence, we need to move even faster in the next five years,” Hawes concluded.
What eMobility incentives are available in the UK?
The adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the UK is on the rise, driven by several factors.
Among these are the increased availability of BEVs across all segments and the introduction of more affordable models.
Improvements in public charging infrastructure—particularly rapid and ultra-rapid DC charging—and the growing availability and variety of smart AC chargers, especially smart residential chargers, also play a significant role in the shift towards zero-emission vehicles.
Additionally, as more consumers, both private and business, become aware of the importance of eMobility due to the ongoing climate crisis, government support remains a crucial factor in encouraging the transition.
However, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the UK currently does not offer tax benefits for the acquisition and ownership of electric vehicles.
Only company vehicles benefit from preferential tax rates for electric and ultra-low emission cars, defined as those emitting less than 75 grams of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilometre.
Regarding incentives, the UK offers a 35% discount (up to 2,500 pounds) for zero-emission vehicles that have been converted into wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
These vehicles must be able to travel more than 112 kilometres without emissions and cost less than 35,000 pounds (excluding the conversion cost).
In terms of charging infrastructure, the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) is available for homeowners living in apartments and renters.
Additionally, the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a business initiative for the installation of electric car chargers, covering up to 75% of the cost, with a maximum of 350 pounds per socket (up to 40 sockets).
Read more: Incentives and Tax Benefits: How Are EU Countries Promoting Electromobility?
