The government is expected to cut its electric vehicle sales targets significantly this week, in a move likely to be welcomed by carmakers but opposed by environmental groups.

Under the current zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, 80% of new cars sold in the UK must be electric by 2030. But manufacturers are falling well short: the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders forecasts that just 27.2% of cars sold this year will be electric, against a mandated 33% share for 2026.

Haigh to finalise plan after Downing Street talks

Louise Haigh is expected to finalise the plan after a meeting in Downing Street on Wednesday called to settle a long-running dispute between the transport, energy and business departments. Government sources have indicated the 2030 target could be cut by about a quarter.

The government launched a review of the mandate in August after industry groups called for urgent relief. Its consultation put lower 2030 targets of 70%, 60% and 50% on the table alongside keeping the current 80% figure.

No decision made, Downing Street insists

Downing Street has insisted that no decision has been made. A government source told the BBC the issue would be approached in a “pragmatic and balanced” way, and ministers stress they remain committed to ending sales of new cars relying solely on petrol or diesel by 2030 and to making all new car and van sales zero emission by 2035.

Environmental groups warn that weakening the target risks the UK’s long-term climate goals, while carmakers say the current trajectory is unachievable and forces them to discount electric cars heavily or pay penalties. The EU has also softened its comparable plan.