BVRLA calls for phased approach to 2035 ban

The BVRLA has urged the government to introduce a phased approach to the petrol, diesel and hybrid ban instead of banning all sales on a single day.

This is in response to the government’s consultation on banning the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles in 2035.

The BVRLA has argued that the diversity of vehicles and business models used within the fleet sector means that 2035 would be an unambitious target for some market segments but a near impossible challenge for others. It has urged policymakers to instead focus on different segments, providing the appropriate support and phase out targets for the relevant vehicle use cases.

Chief executive Gerry Keaney said: “Our response is the culmination of the biggest policy engagement process we have ever undertaken, involving dozens of stakeholders and BVRLA members from across the rental, car club, leasing and fleet management sectors. The net-zero transition is a huge undertaking and government must give specific consideration to the demand measures that will drive uptake, the supply measures that will ensure sufficient vehicles are available and the infrastructure measures that will meet different fleet operating requirements.”

The association has asked the government to undertake a regular review of progress towards any phase out dates, and to only end new hybrid car and van sales if battery electric vehicle supply, affordability and infrastructure is able to meet the requirements of all fleet segments.

Meanwhile, the BVRLA has also published new independent tax modelling from Cambridge Econometrics which shows that the government will need to invest nearly £100bn between now and 2050 if it is to have any chance of meeting its phase out target for the new car market.

Keaney said: “The government is about to set road users some very ambitious and expensive targets for decarbonising their fleets. BVRLA members are up for the challenge, but government needs to show similar ambition and investment in providing a supportive policy environment and an effective tax and incentive regime.

“Zero emission vehicle mandates are not the answer. We need to align our electric vehicle strategy with our closest markets in the EU, where grants and incentives have proved much more successful.”