More than 25% of total car registrations in the United Kingdom in November were for electric vehicles (EVs), statistics from New AutoMotive unveil. The data reflects a new record for EV sales within the UK, with figures that further signify the fact that EV sales have held more than 20% of the market share for the fourth month in a row. With EVs becoming more popular, drivers throughout the UK must be aware of the new EV laws to come. From those that aim to strengthen infrastructure to new financial changes, the laws and regulations that surround EVs continue to evolve in more ways than one.
New changes aim to support ZEV mandate
At the forefront of the new EV laws and regulations is the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which officially became law in Great Britain in January of 2024. “The law states that 80% of all new cars and 70% of vans sold in Great Britain must be zero mission by 2023, before increasing to 100% by 2035,” The Eco Experts highlight. The ambitious ZEV goal has led to a variety of changes that aim to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, as well as aid the transition.
The Independent outlines the slew of new driving laws and regulations that are set to come to British roads in December of 2024. The final Advisory Fuel Rate (AFR), for instance, will involve changed pence per mile rates from December 1 for company cars. The Independent points out that these rates apply to employees who use a company car, and will be helpful for those who will need to be reimbursed for business travel. The regulations extend to the auto industry, as from January first, manufacturers will be required to sell 28% of EVs from its sales fleet (80% by 2030) in order to meet ZEV goals. Should manufacturers fail to hit the target, “it will be fined £15,000 for every vehicle that it sells that does not comply with the mandate,” The Independent notes.
EV road tax changes
Other changes are expected to arise in 2025. Car Magazine highlights the fact that EVs will no longer be exempt from car tax as of April 2025. The article explains that the announcement reflects a step away from what we’ve seen in the past, where incentives have aimed to offset the price premium that a consumer would face — such as the grant that EV adopters would receive, which was then discontinued in 2022. In 2025 and beyond, owners of electric vehicles will be required to pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), which will be at the standard rate (as of November 2024, the cost was £190, though this can fluctuate). “If you register your electric or low-emission car on or after 1 April 2025 — the day the new rule comes into effect — then you’ll be liable to pay the lowest first year rate from the CO2 ladder, which has been set at £10 per year for zero emission vehicles.” Each year after, it’s noted that the standard rate will apply — though it’s important to remember that an additional cost will be required of cars that have a list price that exceeds £40k, Car Magazine states.
Public charge points set to modernise
Charge range is a major concern for prospective EV owners, and may even deter a customer from the purchase of an electric vehicle. With a variety of modern features, EV types, and considerations such as how an EV handles vs. a traditional vehicle, the right choice can seem few and far between for those who are in the market for a new car. Ratings of popular EVs are valuable to the process as they can help make an informed decision based on first-hand accounts. For example, while reviews praise the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV for its long range and quick charge capabilities, considerations lie in how the vehicle handles.
New regulations in regard to public charging operators is another aspect as to how the laws will change in order to support the widespread adoption of EVs in the long run. In late 2023, laws included transparent prices across charge points in addition to prices that were easy to compare, as well as “a large portion” of new public charge points that would have contactless payment options. In late 2024, the laws have evolved to help make the UK’s infrastructure more reliable, with regulations that aim to address issues such as ease of payment and reliability. EV Magazine outlines the key regulatory requirements, which require that operators clearly display the maximum charging price, offer contactless payment options (for charge points above 8kW and existing ones above 50kW), and provide a free, 24/7 staffed helpline — to highlight a few.
EVs have become a popular choice throughout the UK, and have given rise to legislation that aims to support ambitious goals such as those outlined by the ZEV mandate. From the financial considerations to how charge points are set to change, drivers and prospective consumers must be aware of the new laws and regulations throughout the industry as they continue to evolve.