Climate Group Urges EV Campaign for a Greener Future
Hello, Champions of Net Zero!
In a bold move towards electrification, the international non-profit organisation, Climate Group, is championing a public campaign designed to bolster the UK’s national mission on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. This initiative comes as a response to the pressing need for a significant shift in public perception regarding the adoption of electric vehicles.
Among the fleet operators leading this charge are notable companies such as BT, Openreach, Mitie, OVO, Zenith, and Grundfos. These industry giants are calling upon the UK Government to intensify its support for electric vehicles by launching an engaging public campaign that underscores the urgency of this transition.
Fleet operators have emerged as key players in the UK’s transition to electric vehicles. However, as the consultation period on the 2030/35 phase-out of petrol and diesel cars has concluded, these companies caution that a much larger shift in public perception is essential for them to sustain their momentum in the EV transition.
A well-crafted public campaign could effectively showcase the rapid advancements in EV technology while highlighting the manifold benefits these vehicles offer—from public health improvements to economic growth and positive climate impacts. The campaign could also illuminate the financial advantages of going electric, encouraging a broader segment of the population to consider the shift, especially as charging infrastructure expands and prices for both new and used EVs continue to decline.
Recent data from New Automotive indicates that the UK is on track to meet its ambitious electrification targets for 2030, with EV sales reaching an all-time high in January. This growth is a promising sign, but industry leaders believe it needs to be accompanied by a concerted effort to engage the public.
Clive Selley, CEO of Openreach, shared his insights on the necessity for increased public awareness: “As a major fleet operator, we recognise our environmental impact and are committed to leading the shift towards zero-emission vehicles. We are actively addressing barriers to adoption, such as installing thousands of home charging points for our engineers. However, we believe that a public campaign will greatly enhance awareness and confidence in the benefits of EVs, accelerating the UK’s journey towards a greener, sustainable future.”
Peter Dickinson, Chief Legal Officer at Mitie, echoed this sentiment, stating: “Now is the time to escalate the transition to electric vehicles. We fully support a robust national effort to facilitate this change. As one of the UK’s largest electric fleet operators, with over 6,000 EVs, Mitie has been at the forefront of this transition to green transport. Yet, a national mission is crucial to enable the UK to meet its target of 80% EV adoption by 2030. Encouraging other businesses and communities to join this journey will unlock greater investments, create green jobs, and reinforce the UK’s position as a leader in clean transport.”
Ian Hughes, CEO of Zenith’s Corporate and Consumer divisions, noted the progress made through company car and salary sacrifice schemes. He remarked, “Much of the progress in the transition to electric vehicles thus far has been facilitated through clear financial incentives and established communication frameworks. However, for the average consumer, there is still more to be done. A targeted government-led campaign could foster greater awareness of EVs and catalyse change to meet the Government’s phase-out targets.”
Alex Thwaites, Director of EVs at OVO, emphasised the necessity for collaboration in easing the switch to electric vehicles: “We need to work collectively to simplify the transition to EVs. While we have made strides in recent years, further incentives from the Government, including improved charging infrastructure and green financing options for EVs, are essential to accelerate this adoption if the Government is serious about the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate.”
Helen Clarkson, CEO of Climate Group, voiced her concerns about the UK’s current trajectory: “The UK is leading the way in Europe with one of the most successful EV transitions, yet the Government is not fully seizing this unprecedented opportunity. To attract investment, foster innovation, and ensure sustainable growth for future generations, it is imperative to shift gears now. This requires uniting the energy, charging, automotive, and public sectors in a national mission focused on EV infrastructure, so we can develop our charging and grid systems with the urgency and ambition necessary.”
Ben Nelmes, CEO of New Automotive, highlighted the current state of the transition: “The transition isn’t on the horizon; it’s already underway. The UK is rapidly becoming Europe’s leading market for electric cars, outpacing all other major car markets. With over a million motorists now driving electric vehicles, they have collectively saved billions in fuel costs while contributing to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions. As EV sales continue to rise, even more individuals will experience the benefits of making the switch.”
As we look towards a more sustainable future, the call for a public campaign on electric vehicles becomes ever more critical. The involvement of major corporations, alongside the Government’s commitment, can amplify the message about the advantages of EVs, making them more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. The journey towards net zero emissions is a collective effort, and with the right support and awareness, we can ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of this essential transition.
Let us rally together to support this initiative and advocate for stronger measures that will encourage the adoption of electric vehicles across the nation. The future is electric, and it is our responsibility to drive this change forward.
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