The UK government has announced plans to relax regulations on manufacturers transitioning to electric vehicles, citing the need to protect and create jobs in the industry as it prepares for a 2030 ban on producing new petrol and diesel cars.
The British government has announced plans to relax regulations on manufacturers transitioning to electric vehicles, citing the need to protect and create jobs in the industry. The ban on producing new petrol and diesel cars will come into effect in 2030.
The UK's automotive sector is a significant contributor to the country's economy, employing over 180,000 people and generating £80 billion in annual turnover.
The industry has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century when manufacturers such as Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin were established.
Today, the UK is home to several major car manufacturers, including Jaguar Land Rover, Mini, and Vauxhall.
The sector also boasts a thriving supply chain, with many smaller companies providing components and services to the industry.
President Donald Trump‘s imposition of a 25% levy on imported cars has sent shockwaves through the UK car industry, which faces an uncertain period ahead. The US is the second-largest export market for the UK motor industry, and the tariffs have already led to some manufacturers pausing shipments.
The government has framed its latest intervention as a way to help car firms grow despite potentially seismic changes to the motor industry. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said that while the government is committed to the 2030 deadline, she would relax regulations which dictate how firms make the switch in order to ‘protect and create jobs’.
Heidi Alexander is a British Labour Party politician serving as Member of Parliament (MP) for Lewisham East since 2010.
She was previously the Deputy Mayor of London for Transport from 2016 to 2020.
Alexander has been involved in various roles, including Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and Shadow Minister for Local Government.
She has also served on several parliamentary committees, focusing on transport, health, and education issues.
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Mandates imposed on car firms as they transition to phasing out petrol and diesel vehicle production will be relaxed to help firms avoid fines
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Smaller UK firms like Aston Martin and McLaren are to be allowed to keep making petrol cars beyond the 2030 deadline
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Some hybrid vehicles will be able to stay on the market until 2035
Founded in 1913, Aston Martin is a British luxury sports car manufacturer renowned for its sleek designs and high-performance vehicles.
With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, the brand has produced iconic models such as the DB5, Vanquish, and Vantage.
Aston Martin's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has earned it a loyal following among car enthusiasts worldwide.
The brand is now part of the Italian conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and continues to push boundaries in the world of luxury sports cars.
