ZEV Mandate, inflation and supply chain pressures look likely to dominate the agenda for dealers in the year ahead.
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader Commercial Director commented that new car sales still sit “significantly behind” pre-COVID levels.
“Even though electric car sales accounted for around a fifth of the total 2024 sales- not far off the government target – hitting the next target of 28% by the end of this year will be incredibly challenging,” he said.
Jamie Hamilton, automotive partner and head of electric vehicles at Deloitte, said: “Looking ahead to 2025, the industry will be hoping for inflation and supply chain pressures to ease, not least because the heavy discounting incentives used to drive uptake over the last few months looks unsustainable.
“There is also hope within the industry that the government’s ongoing consultation on the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate will provide much needed clarity and commitment. However, with the Zero Emission Vehicle target increasing to 28% in 2025 there will likely be greater pressure on manufacturers who are already under strain.
James Court, public policy director at Octopus Electric Vehicles: “Unsurprisingly this is yet another strong set of sales figures for EVs. The ZEV mandate is clearly working – even with the negativity being pushed by pockets of the industry.
“We need a swift conclusion to the uncertainty around the ZEV mandate and refocus efforts of industry and government to make this transition a success, for everyone. A story that cleans up our transport system and ensures jobs for years to come.”
