The United Kingdom is projected to achieve a significant environmental and industrial milestone by hitting its official electric vehicle sales target for 2025, according to new analysis.
ZEV Mandate Target Within Reach
Industry data indicates the country is on course to meet the 28 per cent target set under the government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate by the end of the year. This regulation compels car manufacturers to sell an increasing share of electric or hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles each year, with the ultimate goal of 100 per cent ZEV new car and van sales by 2035.
Colin Walker, head of transport at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), stated that the industry is on track for 2025, just as it was last year. "British drivers are increasingly choosing to switch to electric," he said, noting that the UK is now second only to China among the world's largest car markets for the proportion of new EV purchases.
Policy Confusion Threatens Future Progress
Despite this success, a new warning suggests momentum could be jeopardised. The latest AA UK EV Readiness Index score has risen slightly to 48.8 out of 100 but remains below the halfway point that would signal widespread public readiness to embrace electric cars.
AA president Edmund King highlighted the risk, saying: "Drivers are being buffeted by mixed messages and policy reversals. Talk of the ZEV mandate being scrapped or delayed, and the introduction of new taxes on EVs, risks undermining years of progress." He cautioned that those uncertain about switching may retreat to familiar petrol or diesel models.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
While there is positive news, such as a faster drop in EV insurance costs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, wider concerns persist. The second-hand market, where most private sales occur, faces pricing uncertainties that could deter buyers.
Walker of the ECIU emphasised the global direction, stating: "It’s clear the world is only going in one direction on electric cars, so slipping into the slow lane is a recipe for getting left behind." Meanwhile, the AA's conclusion is clear: stronger, clearer guidance and meaningful incentives in 2026 are essential to build real driver confidence and accelerate adoption nationwide.
