Industry reaction to Government consultation on ZEV mandate

After the recent comments from the UK Government, we will bring you the latest and updated reaction on this post, keep checking back for more comments from automotive industry leaders:

IMI response: Support for training in aftermarket skills must be a focus

“There is no question that we all want the same thing in respect of reducing emissions”, said Azlina Bulmer, Managing Director, IMI. “However, the latest data shows that the automotive sector is facing significant challenges in meeting the targets for EV sales. We, therefore, welcome the fast-track consultation announced (27th November 2024) by the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, MP, Secretary of State for Business and Industry.

“Representing the interests of our 100,000+ members, we aim to make clear in our response to the consultation that businesses and individuals need the certainty and support to invest in the critical skills required to support an ever-growing electric vehicle parc and to give motorists the confidence to make the switch.

“The news of the Luton van factory closure is hugely disappointing. It is imperative, therefore, that the consultation addresses the pressures that the vehicle manufacturers are facing. The IMI represents the people of automotive, and we remain on hand to offer support to everyone affected, helping them apply their skills in other areas of the industry.”

According to IMI TechSafe data, currently just 25% of the automotive workforce is qualified to work on electric vehicles. Critically only 9% of that workforce is qualified to Level 4, meaning they can work on live high voltage vehicle electrical components and associated systems when carrying out maintenance and repair of electric/hybrid high voltage vehicle systems and components and just over half (54%) of the workforce that has taken electrification qualifications is qualified to Level 3.

Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles, said: 

"The government has two clear aims – to keep rolling out clean electric cars, and make many of them. The ZEV mandate is working – sales are up by 14%, and every second driver today wants their next car to be electric. 

“EVs are already six times cheaper to run than petrol cars for those with a driveway, and private investors have committed £6bn to further strengthen the public charging network.

“Manufacturers that failed to invest in the future are now facing challenges. To secure long term jobs in the sector, the government must hold firm on the ZEV mandate and invest in targeted support for manufacturers committed to the electric transition and jobs in the UK.

“Changing the mandate would mean shooting ourselves in the foot by bowing to the pressure of a few laggard companies.”