Several leading car manufacturers have privately urged the UK government to reverse its commitment to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035, according to documents that reveal extensive lobbying efforts.

BMW, Ford, Nissan, and Toyota, alongside the automotive parts giant Bosch, jointly wrote to ministers in April. They called for an “open technology approach” that would allow the continued sale of internal combustion engine vehicles beyond the current deadline, which mandates zero carbon emissions for all new cars.

Challenge to Decarbonisation Goals

This coordinated pressure represents a significant challenge to a cornerstone of the UK's decarbonisation strategy. The government had initially aimed for a 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, a target later extended to 2035.

The policy forms a key part of the nation's broader commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Undermining the 2035 target could significantly impede progress towards these legally binding climate goals.

Industry's Shifting Stance

The lobbying effort comes as the global automotive industry navigates a complex transition towards electric vehicles (EVs). While many manufacturers have invested heavily in EV research and production, some continue to voice concerns about the pace of the shift, citing issues such as charging infrastructure and consumer readiness.

An "open technology approach," as advocated by the carmakers, suggests a desire to maintain flexibility, potentially including hybrid technologies or even advanced internal combustion engines, rather than a strict reliance on battery electric vehicles.

The revelation of the lobbying activities raises questions about the future trajectory of UK climate policy and the government's resolve in maintaining its ambitious environmental targets in the face of industry pressure.