The Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) has renewed its call for the government to overhaul the ZEV Mandate.
SMMT CEO Mike Hawes said while September’s 36.3% rise in vehicle production was welcome, it did not tell the whole story.
The comparison largely reflects last September’s cyber disruption, which halted production at Britain’s biggest automotive employer.
“This week’s Budget affirmed the ZEV Mandate review will conclude this year, with changes effective from the start of 2027.
“Government must meet that deadline with meaningful reform that closes the widening gap between natural demand and regulatory targets.
“Marginal adjustments will not be sufficient, particularly when other policies pull in the opposite direction.
“Reforming the Mandate is not a retreat from electrification. If automotive is to participate in UK reindustrialisation, policy must make Britain competitive, help consumers switch and enable manufacturers to invest, rather than spend ever more bridging the gap between regulation and demand,” said Hawes.
