The UK government is considering easing its electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate by allowing more hybrid vehicles to be sold through 2030. Under the proposal, fully electric cars could account for 50% of new vehicle sales by the end of the decade, down from the current 80% target, with hybrids making up the rest, the Financial Times reports. However, the government still plans to ban sales of new petrol and diesel cars in 2030 and phase out new hybrid sales by 2035.
The potential change comes after pressure from automakers and labor unions, who argue that EV demand is growing but remains below government targets, raising concerns about investment and jobs. Supporters of the current policy warn that weakening the mandate could create uncertainty for consumers and investors who have already committed to the transition to electric transportation.
