ChargeUK Urges Continuation of ZEV Mandate
Welcome, Net Zero News readers,
As we stand at the precipice of an electric vehicle (EV) revolution, the charging sector emerges as a vital artery, enabling the transition from traditional petrol and diesel vehicles to a cleaner, more sustainable future. However, a recent statement from ChargeUK, the industry’s leading trade association, raises an alarm about the potential threats to this progression. If the conditions for investment are not optimised, the sector’s ability to support the EV transition could be “severely compromised.”
ChargeUK has voiced grave concerns regarding the UK Government’s consultation on the petrol and diesel car phase-out, particularly emphasising that any alterations to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate could jeopardise the rollout of widespread and affordable charging infrastructure. This mandate has been instrumental in underpinning the multi-billion-pound investments committed by ChargeUK’s members, driving the deployment of essential charging infrastructure across the nation.
Over the past two years, this investment has catalysed an explosion in the number of charge points available, contributing significantly to record levels of EV sales in recent months. Remarkably, EVs accounted for a fifth of all new car registrations in January 2025. Such milestones underscore the urgent need for robust charging infrastructure to sustain this momentum.
However, ChargeUK warns that any modification to the ZEV mandate could place these advancements at risk. A slowdown in charger rollout could result in higher prices at charge points, creating a more challenging environment for consumers considering the switch to electric vehicles. To avert this potential crisis, ChargeUK has outlined several recommendations aimed at boosting demand and enhancing the charging landscape:
- Improving Charging Affordability: ChargeUK advocates for equalising VAT on public charging to 5%, addressing the rising standing and capacity costs, and extending the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) to charging.
- Boosting Visibility of Charging Sites: The association urges the modernisation of outdated signage rules, particularly on the Strategic Road Network, to enhance the visibility of charging locations.
- Instilling Confidence in Drivers: ChargeUK recommends delaying changes to the Expensive Car Supplement and Vehicle Excise Duty, while considering further demand incentives in consultation with the industry to bolster consumer confidence.
Additionally, ChargeUK has called upon the Government to restrict sales of hybrid cars to Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) between 2030 and 2035, further aligning with the goals of a zero-emission future.
Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK, articulated the industry’s position with clarity: “Our response to the ZEV mandate consultation is straightforward – we need to maintain and build on the conditions that have led to the recent growth in charge point deployment, and that have been pivotal in supporting record levels of EV sales.”
She elaborated on the proactive measures taken by the charge point industry, stating, “The charge point industry has been working ahead of demand, installing nearly 75,000 public charge points and over ten times as many home and workplace chargers, enabling drivers to switch to EVs with confidence.”
Read cautioned against any changes to the current mandate, emphasising that such alterations could disrupt investor confidence and lead to a detrimental slowdown in the rollout of charging infrastructure. This, in turn, would impose higher costs on consumers and complicate the sales landscape for EVs.
“Instead,” she urged, “the Government should stick to the existing mandate and focus on further supporting and stimulating demand for EVs.”
ChargeUK remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering a world-class charging network that will empower Britain’s transition to a zero-emission future. However, this ambition hinges on continued policy certainty and collaboration with government stakeholders.
As we navigate these critical discussions surrounding the future of EVs and charging infrastructure, it is imperative that we, as a community, advocate for policies that not only support the growth of electric vehicles but also foster an environment conducive to investment in the necessary infrastructure. The road ahead is paved with opportunities, but it requires a collective effort to ensure a sustainable, equitable transition for all.
Let us continue to champion the cause of net zero and work together towards a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.
