UK weighs relaxing EV rules as oil shocks and heatwaves intensify policy debate
TL;DR
Britain is weighing a relaxation of its EV rules even as oil prices surge from geopolitical tensions, heatwaves rage, and EV sales accelerate toward targets. An August 14 consultation signals a potential watering down of the 2030 goal (to around 50–70%) and even talks of more North Sea drilling, despite BEV sales rising (July up ~44% YoY) and plug-ins nearing 40% of new car sales. Critics warn that weakening targets would hurt climate and energy security, while supporters argue rules should adapt to current conditions.
- As EV sales, oil costs and wildfires spike, UK gov’t considers.. fewer EVs? (update) Electrek
- Burnham criticised for EV and North Sea approach amid climate crisis The Guardian
- Electric vehicle sales targets could be cut after pressure from car makers BBC
- Labour looks to row back on net zero targets The Times
- Burnham to slash electric car targets The Telegraph
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