Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has launched a fresh review into support for car makers struggling with Britain’s electric vehicle (EV) transition. This comes after a warning from 40 Labour MPs about looming job losses in the UK motor industry.
Labour MPs Unite Over EV Policy Impact
More than one in ten Labour MPs signed a letter to ministers, flagging serious concerns about how EV targets threaten workers in their constituencies. Mansfield MP Steve Yemm revealed the scale of unease on Chopper’s Political Podcast, saying there’s “real unanimity” among colleagues.
“Some of us are really concerned because we meet with workers, we meet with management and we hear the same thing,” Yemm said. He also confirmed raising these worries directly with Heidi Alexander last week.
Government Stands Firm on EV Deadlines but Eyes “Extra Flexibilities”
Britain’s ban on new petrol and diesel car sales kicks in in 2030, with all new vehicles required to be zero-emissions by 2035. Officials insist the deadlines won’t budge but admit the upcoming review, set for spring 2027, could offer manufacturers “extra flexibilities” to ease the pressure.
A source close to the Transport Secretary said, “We were always reviewing it in 2027; that’s long been the commitment.”
Price Cuts Raise Concerns, but EV Sales Are Booming
Car makers have slashed EV prices heavily to hit tough sales targets, raising worries over the financial health of the industry.
Yet supporters highlight a surge in EV purchases last February, spurred by fuel price spikes linked to the Iran conflict. The Department for Transport insists the shift to electric is accelerating.
“It has never been easier or cheaper to own an EV, especially against the backdrop of high and fluctuating prices at the pumps. One in four cars sold now is electric,” a spokesman declared.
The government introduced flexible routes last year to help manufacturers meet zero-emission rules without relying solely on pure EV sales.
So far, the Treasury has poured over £7.5 billion into EV manufacturing support. Meanwhile, the Electric Car Grant has helped 80,000 UK drivers switch to electric vehicles.
