British Drivers Skeptical of Labour's 2030 Petrol and Diesel Ban

The majority of British drivers are skeptical about Labour’s commitment, led by Sir Keir Starmer, to ban petrol and diesel cars by the end of the decade, according to a recent study. A poll conducted by AutoTrader, a prominent new and used car marketplace, revealed that 80% of UK drivers doubt the feasibility of the proposed ban on combustion engine vehicles.

This skepticism appears to be influencing the demand for electric vehicles (EVs). AutoTrader’s latest “Road to 2030 Report” indicated that the proportion of new car inquiries for EVs has stagnated at 18% this year. If current trends persist, EVs are projected to capture only 45% of the market share by 2030.

Public Doubts and Government Assurance

Ian Plummer, Commercial Director at AutoTrader, expressed concerns over the findings.

“There is genuine concern that 80% of consumers doubt the Government can meet its 2030 goal of banning new petrol and diesel vehicle sales,”

Plummer stated. The survey, which sampled over 2,000 individuals through a nationally representative Find Out Now survey, highlights a growing uncertainty among consumers.

In response to these doubts, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander reaffirmed the government’s stance in January, emphasizing that

“no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold after 2030.”

She further clarified that all new cars and vans must be 100% zero-emission by 2035, following the expiration of some hybrid model exemptions.

Political and Public Reactions

Labour has criticized the Conservative Party for allegedly causing “significant harm to the industry” by proposing to delay the phase-out dates from 2030 to 2035. This political tug-of-war reflects broader public opinion, as evidenced by a previous YouGov study. The study found that 49% of respondents supported the ban on petrol and diesel vehicles, while 32% opposed it.

AutoTrader’s survey also highlighted affordability as a significant barrier to EV adoption. Pricing remains a concern for 52% of UK drivers, with 78% of car buyers intending to spend less than £20,000 on their next vehicle. However, only 7.6% are willing to spend £30,000 or more, despite the limited availability of new EVs in this price range.

Market Dynamics and Future Prospects

Currently, AutoTrader lists just 33 new EVs priced at £30,000 or below, underscoring the affordability challenge. Ian Plummer noted,

“While the availability of affordable new and used EVs is increasing, and the £1.4 billion recently committed by the Government to support the transition is promising, it may take time for these improvements to reach and reassure the wider public.”

The announcement comes as the UK automotive industry grapples with transitioning to greener technologies amid economic uncertainties. The government’s financial commitment aims to bolster infrastructure and incentivize EV adoption, yet consumer confidence remains a pivotal factor.

Moving forward, the interplay between government policy, market forces, and consumer sentiment will likely shape the trajectory of the UK’s transition to electric vehicles. As the 2030 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on whether Labour can deliver on its ambitious pledge or if public skepticism will persist.