UK car manufacturers are urging the Government to substantially relax electric-vehicle sales targets and cut energy costs after production fell again in July. The industry says it faces pressure from weak overseas demand, global competition and potential trade barriers with the EU, while missing EV targets could expose companies to fines.

UK production fell 10.6% year on year to 61,767 vehicles in July, leaving output 4.7% lower so far this year at 433,523. Electric and hybrid production rose 6.8% to 25,678 vehicles, accounting for over 40% of cars made, but EVs represent only one in four new cars sold this year against a 33% target for 2026; the target is set to reach 80% by 2030 under current rules.