Powering Up Britain – Decarbonisation Plan
On Thursday 30 March 2023, Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, Secretary for Energy Security Secretary and Net Zero, announced his ‘Powering up Britain’ strategy, which brings together an Energy Security Plan and Net Zero Growth Plan, with a critical focus towards increasing UK clean energy, including electricity, wind, solar and nuclear.
For the automotive retailing sector, it is particularly pleasing to see a commitment to invest £380.8m into charging infrastructure, a prominent barrier stopping many UK motorists from switching to an electric vehicle.
Following the announcement, government has also provided further information regarding its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, ensuring manufacturers are producing a sufficient level of electric vehicles from 01 January 2024. The clarity given today will give dealers and motorists greater confidence to continue their decarbonisation journey and accelerate the transition to zero-emission transport.
Ultra Low Emissions Zone Expansion
Government has announced their decision to expand London’s Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) to cover the whole of London and from 29 August 2023, drivers will be expected to pay £12.50 a day to enter this boundary.
Cars which will be exempt from this daily charge includes:
- Petrol cars that meet Euro 4 standards. This generally includes petrol cars produced after January 2006. Subject to manufacturer and should be checked using TfL’s identification service.
- Diesel cars that meet Euro 6 standards. This generally applies to any car made after September 2015.
- Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs).
The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) recently opposed this expansion in their consultation response.
Find NFDA's Electric Vehicle Fact and Figures sheet here:
