HOW SHOULD THE GOV'T HANDLE ICE PHASE-OUT?

The UK government is seeking views and you can give yours. Here's ours

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Ever since 2020, when then prime minister Boris Johnson first outlined plans to ban the sale of new non-zeroemission cars from 2030 onwards, there has been more confusion than clarity.

Under various subsequent UK governments, the date has moved from 2030 to 2035 and back, and all the while there has been a plan to allow the sale of certain hybrids although nobody has yet specified exactly which sort.

For car firms used to planning years in advance, it has been hugely problematic. For car buyers, this huge dollop of uncertainty has left many unsure what they should buy, or when.

But the current government has promised certainty, with a pledge to reinstate that 2030 date - and while some hybrids will be allowed on sale until 2035, there's now finally a promise to specify details.

At the same time, the government is looking at refining some aspects of the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires firms to sell an increasing percentage of EVs to avoid punitive fines. With the targets running ahead of consumer demand, it warped the market in 2024.

The first step to clarity is an ongoing government consultation, which seeks feedback on various aspects of the ICE phaseout and ZEV mandate. As we did with the original 2020 consultation (1 July 2020) Autocar feels it is vital to make our voice heard and we have submitted our own response.

We have included the key aspects of our response to the 17 questions in the consultation here: you can read our full submission online.

Do you agree with the government's view that full hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies only should be considered? Please explain your answer.