Carmakers Lobby UK to Revoke 2035 Petrol and Diesel Car Ban 2026

Carmakers lobby UK to revoke the 2035 ban on petrol and diesel cars, according to newly released documents that reveal a coordinated effort to weaken a cornerstone decarbonisation policy. BMW, Ford, Nissan, Toyota and parts maker Bosch jointly wrote to ministers in April 2025, urging an “open technology approach” that would allow internal combustion engines, hybrids and plug-in hybrids beyond the 2035 deadline. The letter, obtained via a freedom of information request, exposes the intense pressure automakers are applying to delay the UK’s zero-emission vehicle transition.

Why carmakers want to delay the petrol and diesel ban

The proposed 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales is a key pillar of the UK’s net-zero strategy. However, carmakers argue that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) still face range anxiety, high upfront costs and insufficient charging infrastructure. In their joint letter, the companies called for permission to sell “highly efficient ICE [internal combustion engines], hybrids, plug-in hybrids, range extenders and combustion engines when utilising green steel and sustainable fuels” after 2035. Critics point out that all these technologies still produce carbon dioxide and harmful pollutants, undermining climate goals.

The government’s shifting stance on EV mandates

Despite a government spokesperson insisting the 2035 ban is “not up for negotiation,” successive administrations have already weakened battery EV policies. Labour introduced “flexibilities” into electric vehicle targets running up to 2030, and the government is now considering further changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate after sustained lobbying. The Climate Change Committee identifies the switch to electric vehicles as the single biggest contributor to cutting UK carbon pollution in the next decade. Any backtracking could jeopardise the UK’s legally binding net-zero commitments.

Industry and campaigner reaction

The suggestion of revoking the 2035 ban drew sharp criticism from environmental campaigners and pure EV brands like Polestar. Matt Galvin, managing director of Polestar UK, stated: “Reversing the transition to pure electric vehicles in the middle of a climate emergency would be a historic policy failure. The technology exists, consumers are embracing it and the economic case is becoming stronger every year.”

• Lobbying effort: Joint letter from BMW, Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Bosch to UK ministers.
• Key demand: Allow hybrids, plug-ins, and sustainable-fuel ICE cars after 2035.
• Risk: Delay in UK carbon reduction targets; climate goals at stake.
• Consumer impact: Uncertainty about future car purchases and investment in EV infrastructure.

FAQ

The battle over the 2035 ban highlights the tension between automakers’ business models and the urgent need to decarbonise transport. As the government weighs further concessions, the outcome will shape the UK’s automotive future for decades. Stay informed with GrandGoldman.com for the latest on car policy, EV trends and environmental regulations.