Ministers expected to ease electric car sales targets amid Labour concern

Ministers are expected to reduce the UK’s interim electric vehicle sales targets, easing pressure on carmakers but drawing concern from Labour MPs and climate campaigners. The decision matters because the mandate is a major part of the government’s emissions reduction plan, and its direction could signal how ministers balance industry concerns with climate commitments.

Louise Haigh is expected to settle the dispute after a Downing Street meeting on Wednesday, with government sources anticipating a cut of about a quarter. The current trajectory requires 80% of new cars to be electric by 2030, rising to all new car and van sales by 2035; EVs made up 26.6% of new car sales in the first ten months of this year, against a 33% target. The industry says targets are outpacing demand, while the government says no decision has been taken and it remains committed to the phaseout timetable and net zero goals.