Net Zero News: EV battery health funding bolsters net-zero drive

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. In a significant step towards boosting confidence in the electric vehicle market, Motability Operations has confirmed that its trial battery health guarantee for used EVs is being made permanent, promising a minimum 90 per cent battery health for all eligible vehicles.

Net Zero News can reveal that the pilot scheme, first launched in mid-2023 across a select network of dealerships, will now be extended nationwide. Under the guarantee, any used EV sold through Motability-approved outlets will undergo a comprehensive health check. If the battery capacity dips below the 90 per cent threshold within the warranty period, the customer is entitled to a full replacement or repair at no extra cost.

The battery health promise is underpinned by advanced diagnostic technology and real-time data monitoring. It employs on-board telematics alongside third-party testing to deliver transparent health reports. This measure addresses one of the industry’s biggest barriers to EV adoption: consumer anxiety over battery degradation. As the UK pursues its Net Zero Strategy and the Road to Zero ambitions, ensuring high residual values and robust warranties is essential to stimulating the second-hand market.

This move aligns closely with national targets to phase out conventional petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 and for all new cars and vans to be zero emission by 2035. By safeguarding battery integrity, the scheme directly contributes to reducing lifecycle emissions and supporting a low-carbon automotive ecosystem. Net Zero News recently reported on the government’s drive to expand public chargepoint infrastructure in our article on the EV charging boost, highlighting how these complementary initiatives are reshaping the transport sector.

Why it matters for the UK’s net-zero transition is clear. Analysis suggests that extending the usable life of EV batteries by even a few percentage points can prevent hundreds of thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the next decade. Consumers benefit from lower total cost of ownership, while dealers gain confidence to stock more used EVs. Early data from the trial indicates a 25 per cent uplift in dealer orders and a surge in enquiries from drivers seeking cost-effective, low-emission mobility solutions.

The scheme is backed by a strategic partnership between Motability Operations, leading OEMs and specialist battery diagnostics firm E-Health Analytics. Supported by funding from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles and oversight from the Department for Transport, the initiative dovetails with broader government investment in electric mobility. Motability has committed an initial £5 million to scale the programme, with further contributions anticipated as uptake grows.

Net Zero News understands this forms part of the UK’s wider Transport Decarbonisation Plan, which calls for innovation in vehicle standards, improved recycling pathways and ambitious fleet electrification targets. It also complements local authority schemes promoting EV car clubs and integrated transport hubs, reinforcing a cohesive approach to decarbonising road travel.

Industry reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Dealer groups report enhanced footfall and strengthened buyer trust. Drivers in both urban and rural communities are expressing renewed interest, particularly those on lower incomes who view used EVs as an affordable entry point. More on this can be found on the Net Zero Club homepage, where community forums are buzzing with success stories and practical advice.

Looking ahead, Motability plans to extend the scheme to 120 approved dealerships by Q3 2025 and roll out an interactive online platform for battery health tracking. A mid-2026 review will assess programme outcomes, with potential expansion into commercial fleets. Stakeholders are optimistic that this guarantee will become a benchmark for the wider industry, driving market confidence and accelerating the UK’s journey to net zero.

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