Starmer promises ‘bold changes’ to rules over electric cars in response to Trump tariffs
What we know about Starmer’s ‘bold’ plan for Britain’s motor industry
- Keir Starmer will announce Labour’s plan to reinstate the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales in “bold changes” in response to the U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
- The move is expected to pile pressure on Britain’s motor industry, which is facing challenges from both the tariffs and Labour's economic policies.
- The government will introduce "flexibilities" to ease the transition, including postponing the ban on petrol and diesel vans to 2035 and reducing fines for manufacturers not meeting zero-emission vehicle targets.
- Luxury car makers producing limited numbers of vehicles will be exempt from the 2030 ban, and hybrid cars will be permitted until 2035.
- The Conservatives criticised the plan, arguing that it won't offset the negative impact of Labour's tax increases and lack of preparedness for the tariffs, while the automotive industry calls for further government support.