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30 November 23

Government Sees Red for its Former Green Plans

Extension to the Petrol/ Diesel car phase-out


In a monumental decision with far-reaching implications, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a significant extension to the Petrol/ Diesel car phase-out, pushing the deadline from 2030 to 2035. This pivotal move is set to reshape the automotive landscape, providing van owners with more time to transition to greener alternatives. We delve into the details of this announcement, its impact on van fleet management services and the automotive industry in general and what it means for consumers.


The Shift in Deadline: A Brief Overview

The initial target of banning new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030 was a bold step towards achieving a greener and more sustainable future. However, recognizing the challenges faced by both the automotive industry, van fleet operators and consumers, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has extended the deadline by an additional five years, now set for 2035. This extension aims to strike a balance between environmental goals and the practicalities of transitioning to electric or alternative fuel vehicles. We have discussed the issues related to commercial tyres for electric vehicles in the past, invariably extending the need for a wider tyre stock to meet demands for commercial van tyres in general but particularly emergency van tyres.


Impact on the Automotive Industry


  1. Breathing Room for Manufacturers: The extended deadline provides automakers with more time to invest in research and development, ensuring that electric vehicles (EV’s) become more accessible, affordable, and technologically advanced. This breathing room can spur innovation and pave the way for a smoother transition to greener transportation options. 
  2. Infrastructure Development: The shift to electric vehicles requires a robust charging infrastructure. The extended timeline allows for more comprehensive planning and implementation of charging stations across the country. This is crucial for addressing "range anxiety" and encouraging widespread adoption of electric vehicles. 
  3. Market Dynamics: The automotive market is dynamic, with consumer preferences and economic conditions influencing purchasing decisions. The extended phase-out timeline provides a more gradual transition, allowing consumers and fleet operators to adjust to the changing landscape without feeling rushed or pressured. (Electric vehicles are already 100% tax deductible for commercial vehicles with 100% capital allowances in year 1, as are chargers, but with the announcements in the Autumn statement to extend capital allowances, it is likely that there will be further investment in the sector). 


Impact on Fleets and Consumers


  1. Affordability and Availability: One of the primary concerns for consumers was the affordability and availability of electric vehicles. The extended timeline gives manufacturers the opportunity to refine production processes, reduce costs, and offer a more diverse range of electric models, making them more accessible to a broader audience.
  2. Technological Advancements: Electric vehicle technology is advancing rapidly. The additional five years allow for the development of more efficient batteries, increased range, and improvements in charging infrastructure. This means van fleet management services and consumers can anticipate a more evolved and reliable electric vehicle market by 2035. 
  3. Resale Value and Transition Planning: Van fleet management services and other car owners were concerned about the resale value of their existing petrol and diesel vehicles. The extended phase-out period allows consumers to plan their transition thoughtfully, ensuring they can make informed decisions about when and how to switch to electric or alternative fuel vehicles. 



What This Means for Tyrenet Customers


At Tyrenet, we understand that changes in the automotive landscape also impact other aspects of vehicle maintenance and care. As the transition to electric vehicles gains momentum, there are several considerations for our customers:

  1. Tyre Maintenance for EV's: Electric vehicles often have different weight distributions and torque characteristics than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. As such, tyre maintenance for EVs may vary, and our team at Tyrenet is prepared to provide expert advice and services tailored to the specific needs of electric vehicles.
  2. Eco-Friendly Tyres: With the growing emphasis on sustainability, the demand for eco-friendly tyres is on the rise. As fleets and consumers make the shift to greener vehicles, Tyrenet is committed to offering a diverse range of environmentally conscious tyre options to complement the evolving automotive landscape.
  3. Educational Resources: Navigating the transition to electric vehicles involves understanding new technologies and maintenance requirements. Tyrenet is dedicated to providing educational resources and support to help our customers make informed decisions about tyre care for electric and alternative fuel vehicles as part of our van fleet maintenance programme.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's decision to extend the Petrol/ Diesel car and van phase-out to 2035 is a game-changer that recognises the complexities of transitioning to a greener automotive future. This move allows for a more measured and sustainable shift, benefitting both the automotive industry, fleet operators and consumers. At Tyrenet, we remain committed to supporting our customers through this transition, offering expert tyre services and staying abreast of developments to ensure that your journey on the road to a sustainable future is smooth and well-supported.

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