Major automakers have privately urged the UK government to reconsider its planned ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles starting in 2035, according to documents obtained through a freedom of information request. The correspondence, dated April, reveals that BMW, Ford, Nissan, Toyota, and parts manufacturer Bosch jointly called for an "open technology approach" beyond the 2035 deadline.
The letter argues for a regulatory framework that would continue to allow a range of powertrain technologies, including highly efficient internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, plug-in hybrids, range extenders, and combustion engines using green steel and sustainable fuels. This position contrasts with the government’s current policy requiring new cars to be zero carbon emissions vehicles from 2035 onward.
Currently, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is identified by the UK’s Climate Change Committee as the primary driver for reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector over the next decade. While the government has emphasized the importance of this transition, a spokesperson reiterated that the 2035 ban remains firm and is not open for renegotiation.
Despite this, recent years have seen a loosening of some EV policies. The Labour government has introduced additional flexibilities within EV adoption targets leading up to 2030 and is exploring further adjustments to the zero emission vehicle mandate.
The carmakers’ appeal has drawn criticism from environmental campaigners and EV proponents. Matt Galvin, managing director of Polestar UK, an electric vehicle brand, dismissed the call to extend reliance on combustion engines. He highlighted the availability of existing EV technology, growing consumer acceptance, and the strengthening economic rationale for fully embracing electric vehicles, saying there is no justification for continuing dependency on petrol and diesel.
Representatives from BMW, Bosch, Nissan, and Toyota emphasized their commitment to decarbonization but maintained that policy targets should align with consumer demand. Ford did not provide a comment when approached.
The debate underscores ongoing tensions between industry considerations and government climate objectives as the UK moves toward decarbonizing its transport sector in line with broader environmental commitments.