In 2000, global carbon emissions from passenger road vehicles was at 2.5 gigatonnes. By 2018, it was 3.6 gigatonnes.
From 2030, there will be a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles, with hybrids following suit in 2035. If successful, this puts Britain on track to be the fastest country in the G7 to do so.
Since the ban was first announced in 2017, the government has brought forward the ban from 2040 to 2030. So, whether you are a car-lover or just a commuter, your choice of new vehicles will be battery-electric or hydrogen.
Why are fossil fuel-powered cars a problem?
Fuel guzzling SUVs are amongst the worst. If Britain’s SUV drivers switched to electric versions, carbon emissions could be cut by 8.7 million tonnes every year. EDF’s report shows that SUVs are on average contributing 10% more carbon emissions than the average car. It is equivalent to 5.2 million return flights from London to New York.
Research by Which? shows SUVs have much worse fuel economy than average cars, with SUV owners paying up to £1600 extra in fuel a year.
What is stopping people switching to electric vehicles?
AA’s World EV Day survey showed that the main concern was the upfront cost of an EV and a lack of charge points.
Volvo claims they will provide EVs with 621-mile ranges by the 2030 deadline by partnering with Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt. This is comparable to the range of diesel and petrol cars such as the Jaguar XF (731 miles), GMC Yukon XL (713 miles), and Chevrolet Cruze (702 miles).
The EV Volvo with this range would mean buyers would need to charge up once a month.
What does the 2030 ban mean for hybrids?
Hybrids escape the 2030 ban, but only for an extra 5 years. From 2035, new hybrid car sales will be banned unless they “can drive a significant distance when no carbon is coming out of the tailpipe”, says Boris Johnson.
What will happen to used petrol and diesel vehicles?
The 2030 ban is only for new vehicles, so you will still be able to buy and sell used fossil fuel powered vehicles. This includes vans and commercial vehicles. Used hybrid cars will also be able to be bought and sold after 2035.
Internal combustion engine vehicles that are already on the road will be unaffected by the bans.
To prepare for the upcoming ban, get an electric vehicle charger installed on your business premises by Charge & Recharge!