Car industry on alert over hybrid ban

08/05/2018

Car industry on alert over hybrid ban

BBC reports that the government is planning to target hybrid vehicles in an emissions crackdown.

Reports are unconfirmed and a Department for Transport (DfT) spokesperson said, 'It is categorically untrue that government is planning to ban the sale of hybrid cars in the UK by 2040.'

The DfT added, 'We do not comment on leaked draft documents. The Road to Zero Strategy is yet to be finalised and has not been agreed by ministers.'

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said the industry was becoming increasingly concerned, 'Unrealistic targets and misleading messaging on bans will only undermine our efforts to realise this future, confusing consumers and wreaking havoc on the new car market and the thousands of jobs it supports'.

He added, 'We cannot support ambition levels which do not appreciate how industry, the consumer or the market operate and which are based neither on fact nor substance.

'Consumers need clear information about the right vehicles for their driving needs and it is again disappointing for both industry and consumers that vitally important information about government policy is being communicated by leaks.'

The Financial Times and Autocar said that the government's Road to Zero car emissions strategy was due to be unveiled imminently and the DfT denied that hybrid vehicles will be banned but it is thought that vehicles that are unable to travel at least 50 miles on electric power will be banned by 2040. The ban would affect most plug-in hybrids (including the Toyota Prius) which can generally charge the equivalent of 30 miles of electric travel.