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Posted on: 11/09/2023
World Electric Vehicle (EV) Day, celebrated on September 9th, recognises and celebrates the significant strides made in the transition to EVs. As the world pivots towards sustainable transportation solutions, the United Kingdom has been a notable participant in the EV revolution. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of the top electric vehicle statistics in the UK, highlighting its growing commitment to a greener, more environmentally friendly future.
Explosive Growth in EV Sales
In recent years, the UK has witnessed an explosive growth in electric vehicle sales. As reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the UK's pre-owned automobile sector saw a 4.1% increase in the second quarter of this year. Notably, the sales of used battery electric vehicles (BEVs) experienced a remarkable surge during the same period, skyrocketing by 81.8% to reach 30,645 units. This translates to a new record market share of 1.7%, a substantial increase from the previous year's 1.0%.
Government Commitment to EVs
The UK government has set ambitious targets for phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles. In November 2020, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with hybrids allowed until 2035. This clear commitment to electric vehicles sends a strong signal that the UK is serious about reducing its carbon footprint.
Growing Charging Infrastructure
To support the burgeoning EV market, the UK is rapidly expanding its charging infrastructure. The government has pledged to cease the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030. Furthermore, starting in 2035, all newly manufactured cars and vans must possess a fully zero-emission exhaust system. During the interim period from 2030 to 2034, newly produced vehicles must either be fully zero emission or have the capability to travel substantial distances with zero emissions.
Wide Range of EV Models
Automakers are increasingly offering a diverse range of electric vehicle models to cater to various consumer preferences. From compact electric hatchbacks like the Nissan Leaf to luxury electric SUVs like the Jaguar I-PACE, consumers in the UK have an extensive selection of EVs to choose from, making the transition to electric vehicles more accessible.
Incentives for EV Buyers
The UK government has introduced several incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. This includes grants for purchasing electric cars, reduced or waived road taxes for EV owners, and financial support for installing home charging points. These incentives make going electric even more appealing to consumers.
Corporate Commitment to Sustainability
Many UK businesses are also embracing electric vehicles as part of their sustainability initiatives. Fleets of electric delivery vans and company cars are becoming increasingly common, contributing to a reduction in corporate carbon footprints.
Job Creation and Economic Benefits
The electric vehicle industry is not only contributing to a cleaner environment but also creating job opportunities. The UK's growing EV market has led to the establishment of new manufacturing facilities and research centers, generating employment and fostering economic growth.
On World EV Day, it's evident that the United Kingdom is making significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable future. With impressive growth in EV sales, government commitment to phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, expanding charging infrastructure, a diverse range of EV models, incentives for buyers, and corporate sustainability initiatives, the UK is not only leading but setting the pace for a zero-emission transportation sector.
The UK's ambitious targets for electrification of its roads demonstrate its unwavering dedication to combat climate change and reduce emissions. These targets go hand in hand with global efforts to limit the rise in temperatures and protect our planet for future generations. As we celebrate this day, let us not only recognise the UK's progress but also applaud its vision and commitment to achieving a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future through electric vehicles. Together, we can drive change and make a profound impact on our environment, setting an example for nations worldwide
