Manufacturing · Automotive · 26 October 2026
SMMT urges government to reform Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate
SMMT has called on the government to reform the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate to provide a realistic trajectory for the industry. The body said that current demand for electric vehicles is below mandated targets, which are set to rise steeply over the next two years.
SMMT has urged the government to reform the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, arguing that the automotive sector requires a sustainable and realistic regulatory route. The trade body maintains that while it is committed to zero emission vehicles, the current framework needs adjustment to support manufacturers. The call for change includes requests for improved flexibilities and government incentives to support demand and charging rollout.
Manufacturers have invested billions to bring 180 battery electric models to market and have provided billions in subsidies. Figures show that almost 455,000 battery electric vehicles were put on UK roads this year alone. Despite this, demand remains below the mandated targets, which are set to increase significantly over the next two years. The British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme is described as a first step towards reducing high energy costs that disadvantage British factories, with applications due by 30 November.
SMMT’s 109th Annual Dinner will take place on 24 November. Keynote addresses at the event will be delivered by Jonathan Reynolds MP and Paul Philpott.
Written by StreetOwl from SMMT, a trade body’s own announcement. It was drafted by StreetOwl’s own model, every figure and quotation was checked by code against the announcement, and it was read and approved by Michael Rossi before it went up. It says what was announced, not what anyone should do about it.
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