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As the automotive industry races toward a greener future, key developments are reshaping the road ahead. BMW has announced plans to launch hydrogen powertrains by 2028, signalling a bold move toward diversifying sustainable mobility solutions. Meanwhile, the Department for Transport (DfT) is tackling misinformation about electric vehicles, reinforcing the facts to ensure consumers can make informed choices. At the same time, the government remains firm on the 2030 deadline to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even as it reviews the specifics of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate.
The government is set to launch a "fast-track" consultation on electric vehicle (EV) sales targets within the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, responding to mounting pressure from the automotive industry.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds announced the consultation at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) annual dinner on Wednesday, November 27. He emphasised that while the government remains firmly committed to the 2030 phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles, more support is needed to ensure a successful transition to electric mobility.
The upcoming consultation is not expected to alter the ZEV mandate’s percentage targets but will likely address alternative compliance options for manufacturers to avoid fines if they fall short of sales targets. Currently, carmakers face a £15,000 fine for each vehicle sold outside the mandate’s requirements, though compliance options include mechanisms beyond direct sales figures.
Despite previously ruling out a relaxation of EV production targets, the Department for Transport (DfT) recently held discussions with manufacturers, highlighting the challenges of accelerating EV adoption. While fleet sales dominate the EV market, retail demand remains a hurdle, further complicating the industry's ability to meet rising targets.
Industry stakeholders, including representatives from Tesla, Nissan, Ford, Volkswagen Group, Stellantis, BMW, Toyota, and key trade bodies like the SMMT, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), and ChargeUK, participated in talks with Transport Secretary Louise Haigh and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds.
Some commentators fear the fast-track consultation could lead to a softening of ZEV mandate enforcement, which currently requires 22% of all UK new car sales to be battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in 2024, increasing to 28% in 2025 and ultimately reaching 100% in subsequent years. However, the government insists its commitment to the transition remains unwavering, despite the challenges highlighted by the industry.
A new initiative to tackle misinformation about electric vehicles (EVs) has been launched by Auto Trader, ChargeUK, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The campaign aims to provide clear, data-driven insights to dispel common myths about EV ownership and driving.
The initiative features a set of easy-to-understand facts that offer a balanced perspective on EVs, addressing misconceptions about their environmental impact, safety, range, and charging infrastructure. Key points include clarifying that EVs are greener than their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, are no more likely to catch fire, and offer better range and charging availability than many assume.
These facts will be regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance, with the information endorsed by the Department for Transport (DfT).
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood praised the effort, stating:
"Ensuring consumers have clear, accurate information when deciding what kind of car to buy is essential. This work by industry is absolutely vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero-emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it."
This initiative marks a collaborative step forward in building consumer trust and accelerating the transition to sustainable mobility.
Erin Baker, editorial director at Auto Trader, said:
“Electrification is a significant change and with change comes uncertainty and confusion and that’s why we’re trying to help share more balanced and fact-based narratives with both retailers and consumers to give everyone confidence to navigate their electric journey."
BMW has announced plans to introduce hydrogen powertrains into its model line-up by 2028, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward zero-emission mobility. This innovative move will complement BMW’s existing range of electric, plug-in hybrid, and internal combustion models, providing customers with diverse options for sustainable driving.
Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain builds on more than a decade of joint research. After successfully testing the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet globally, BMW is now gearing up for series production of hydrogen-powered vehicles using next-generation technology co-developed with Toyota.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG, described the initiative as a ground-breaking moment:
“This is a milestone in automotive history: the first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle to be offered by a global premium manufacturer. Powered by hydrogen and driven by the spirit of our cooperation, it will underscore how technological progress is shaping future mobility and herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.”
BMW and Toyota are also advocating for the broader adoption of hydrogen technology across mobility sectors, including passenger and commercial vehicles. A key component of this vision is the development of a robust hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, alongside ongoing support for battery electric charging facilities. Both companies are actively working with partners to drive the production and distribution of low-carbon hydrogen, ensuring a sustainable supply chain.
Koji Sato, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, emphasised the shared vision underpinning the partnership:
“We are pleased that the collaboration between BMW and Toyota has entered a new stage. In our long history of partnership, we have confirmed that BMW and Toyota share the same passion for cars and belief in ‘technology openness’ and a ‘multi-pathway’ approach to carbon neutrality.”
This collaboration highlights the complementary nature of hydrogen and battery-electric technologies, showcasing a united commitment to achieving carbon neutrality through diverse solutions.
