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Islamabad, Jan 4: In 2024, the UK car industry achieved a record number of 382,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sold, making up 19.6% of new car sales. However, this still fell short of the government’s target of 22%, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Key Details
- Despite the record BEV sales, carmakers are at risk of penalties due to missing the government’s target.
- The SMMT warned that the pressure to meet the 2025 target of 28% will be even greater, with penalties for exceeding pollution limits.
- Industry challenges include huge investments in new models and unsustainable incentives, according to SMMT CEO Mike Hawes.
Government’s Response
The UK government has reassured manufacturers that penalties can be avoided through flexibility mechanisms, considering overall fleet emissions reductions. However, there are concerns about the government’s 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, which could impact manufacturers’ strategies.
Despite these hurdles, the total number of vehicles registered in the UK increased by 2.6%, driven mainly by business purchases, though the market still lags behind pre-pandemic levels.
