In its sixth year, SMMT Electrified brings together more than 450 senior representatives from the global automotive industry, aligned sectors, government and media.
The event addressed the UK’s transition to zero emission mobility and the ZEV Mandate’s role.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Our projections suggest this year’s market for EV cars and vans will be significantly short of ZEV mandate targets. Yet from the end of 2027, the mandate trajectories accelerate. Up by 14% for cars and 12% for vans.
“That means, in just two years, we will need to more than double electric car market share – from less than a quarter to more than a half – and quadruple van share.
“And from 2029, flexibilities will no longer be available. Just when we are supposed to be at 80% for cars and 70% for vans. Those targets are fantasy – or rather a nightmare.”
Affordability has been seen as an obstacle in the acceleration of EV adoption.
The government keynote address was delivered by Keir Mather, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation.
Mather addressed concerns regarding the cost of public charging.
He said: “If availability is one side of the public charging ‘coin’, then affordability is clearly the other – and that’s why we’ll publish our review of public charging costs later in the year, ensuring that drivers across the country can benefit from fair and transparent pricing.”
