UK to significantly slow pace of switch to electric cars: Times
The UK government has announced plans to significantly slow the pace of its transition to electric vehicles (EVs), according to recent reports. This decision comes amid growing concerns from automakers and investors about the speed of adoption and the financial viability of supporting infrastructure. The move marks a shift from previous commitments to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 and reflects a more cautious approach to the EV transition.
According to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, the UK had previously set a target of 80% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2030 and 100% by 2035. However, the government has now indicated that these targets will be relaxed, with the 2030 deadline potentially extended and the 2035 goal adjusted to allow for a more gradual shift. This change has been welcomed by some car manufacturers, who argue that the previous timeline was unrealistic and financially burdensome.
The slowdown in the EV rollout is also evident in the pace of public charging infrastructure development. As of November 2025, the UK had installed 87,200 public EV chargers, representing a 13,500 increase from the end of 2024. However, this marked the smallest annual growth in charger installations since 2022, with the industry on track for less than 20% growth compared to the 37% seen the previous year. While the number of ultra-rapid chargers increased by 39% to 9,800, the slower growth in overall installations has raised concerns about meeting future demand.
Industry stakeholders have pointed to several factors contributing to the slowdown, including rising costs for charging infrastructure operators, delays in government funding for local EV infrastructure, and challenges in connecting new chargers to the grid. Additionally, the introduction of a pay-per-mile tax on EVs from 2028 has been cited as a potential deterrent to consumer confidence and investment.
Despite these challenges, the UK’s EV market continues to grow, with electric vehicles accounting for 23% of new car sales in the first 11 months of 2025. However, this growth has not met earlier projections, and some analysts warn that the slower transition could impact the broader economic and environmental goals tied to the EV shift.
The government has emphasized that the revised approach is intended to provide greater flexibility for manufacturers and investors while ensuring a sustainable and economically viable transition to electric vehicles. As the UK moves forward with its updated strategy, the focus will likely shift to balancing environmental objectives with market realities.
