Everything you need to know about the ban

The world is constantly developing and attempting to find new ways to restore the environment. One of these ways is the planned ban of petrol and diesel car production, expected to come into play in the UK in 2030. The ban is part of the government’s ambitious plans to become a completely carbon-neutral nation by 2050. The switch, which was initially announced last year, in the government’s 10-point plan for a greener society.

The government believes that the switch will create up to 250,000 jobs across the UK and to support drivers, they have invested £1.3 billion in developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Why has it been fast tracked?

The ban’s 2030 deadline was advanced from its original 2040 target. The governments main motive for the switch to be moved forward is the new job opportunities. When discussing moving up the phase out date Grant Shapps the health secretary said the change “may produce 40,000 additional employments by 2030,” suggesting that it might be a wise economic decision. Additionally, he continued, “we will see emission reductions equivalent to taking more than 4 million cars off the road”.

Skoda Enyaq iV

How will this ban affect you?

Which cars will be banned?

Cars and vans that solely run on petrol or diesel power will be banned. Mild hybrid cars that cannot drive on electric power alone will also be banned from 2030. To make the transition easier, between 2030 and 2035, new cars and vans can be sold if they have the capability to drive a significant distance with zero emissions (e.g., plug-in hybrids or full hybrids). This will be judged vehicle to vehicle through consultation. The government settled on this rule as hybrid cars are greener than a regular petrol or diesel car. Hybrid cars combine petrol and diesel with an electric motor and therefore are less polluting than cars that rely solely on fossil fuels.

Being able to buy strong hybrid cars for longer may come as a big help for drivers. Hybrid vehicles run on electricity for a portion of the time and the engine experiences less wear and tear. Also, the brakes last longer as a result of the regenerative braking system. Additionally, servicing expenses are kept low because the brakes need changing less frequently.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Which types of cars will still be allowed?

Fully electric vehicles and strong hybrid vehicles will still be manufactured and sold. Most mainstream manufacturers are already offering both electric and plug in hybrid options for their cars. The manufacturers might have to increase the electric only range of their plug in hybrid models to qualify as what the government deems ” Green” cars.

Can you still buy used petrol and diesel cars?

Yes! You will still be able to buy used petrol and diesel cars. The ban is applicable only to the sale of brand new cars. Whether or not the price of used petrol and diesel cars will drop after 2030 still remains to be seen.

Can you continue using your current car?

Yes! As mentioned before the ban is applicable only to new cars. Most modern cars have a life of 15 years or more. If you have bought a car recently then you should be able to use it comfortably for the next couple of years.

How has the industry reacted to this ban?

Although the ban is a positive step in the direction of the environment and the economy, some vehicle manufactures are less happy with the decision. The car industry urged the UK government to delay the ban. Responses submitted by experts (including charging station operators and car manufacturers) suggested that the new date for the ban is far too early for the industry to catch up. It has been recognised among them that the phase out of petrol and diesel cars will not allow for car production to meet demand.

Despite the car industry dismissing the plan as unrealistic, others have claimed that the plans are not sufficient. In fact, a tweet was posted from @Mark_Lynas who said ‘I’m sorry but this is too late. The UK’s ban on new petrol and diesel cars is in 2030. I think 2025 would be a better date – why are new petrol and diesel cars needed for another decade in a climate emergency’. Among man, the transition to electric vehicles is being seen as an essential component in the countries plans to tackle climate change.

Naturally, people are going to question the switch. It is common that people are going to be sceptical of such a large change. One of the main factors is the price. With the cost of living in the UK constantly going up, many people are worried as the cost to acquire an EV tends to be more expensive than a traditional vehicle.

Additionally, other worries such as charge anxiety, range anxiety and a potential of an increase in price of petrol for those who continue to use theirs.

When are other countries banning petrol and diesel cars?

It is not just the UK that is looking to go green and ban the production of petrol and diesel vehicles. Many other countries have also put plans in place in order to phase out production.

  • Germany 2030
  • Ireland 2030
  • Netherlands 2030
  • Norway 2025
  • Spain 2040
  • France 2040
  • India 2030
  • Denmark 2030

If you’re in the market for a new car, it is worth considering an electric vehicle (especially if you’re purchasing it outright). Prices for electric cars have come down in recent years, and there are now several affordable options in the market. Electric cars are far cheaper to maintain than petrol or diesel cars, so the investment may allow you to save money in the future.