In recent years, the global push for sustainable energy solutions has spurred various initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
One initiative making significant waves in the media this month is the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Across the world, governments are implementing policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and other clean transport alternatives to combat climate change and as of January 3, the mandate that at least 22% of all new car sales must be zero emission vehicles became law in England, Scotland and Wales.
Despite being a devolved policy, developed with Scottish government, Welsh government and Northern Ireland’s Department for Infrastructure, the mandate will not take affect here until a restoration of Stormont can be agreed.
Does that mean, like in many other areas, we’re in danger of stalling when it comes to progress and readily embracing the inevitable transition to greener vehicles?
Not necessarily.
A positive outcome of the ZEV mandate coming into force in other UK regions is that, in stimulating the electric vehicle market across the water, it could, in effect, create conditions where manufacturers are keen to sell their quota of EVs by offering significant incentives through discounting. Irrespective of whether Stormont is restored, NI drivers could stand to benefit from these cost incentives with many of the cars on our roads currently sourced from GB already.
In addition, does the absence of a mandate really matter when we are already seeing an increased availability of EV models, a shift in driver attitudes to electric vehicles and improving charging infrastructure?
At Radius Vehicle Solutions we’ve recorded a significant increase in orders for electric or hybrid cars – from 50% in 2021 to 70% in 2023.
The reasons for this are clear. Local businesses naturally understand the tax savings to be made by transitioning corporate fleets and company cars to zero emission vehicles and have been doing do. Businesses can meet the mandate objectives even in its absence by simply being more open to moving their fleets over to electric.
Drivers themselves are now too, more than ever, understanding the benefits as well as the pitfalls associated with petrol or diesel cars.
For example, late last year, the Chancellor’s autumn statement reversed the 5p per litre fuel duty that was implemented back in 2022. This will come into effect in March, making fuel more expensive again for households.
That being said, there is still much of the journey to go and perhaps the lack of a compulsory obligation like the ZEV mandate will just mean unnecessary delays in the speed at which Northern Ireland tackles the task ahead. Namely, the task of expanding its charging network to accommodate the ever-growing number of EVs on its roads.
This expansion will require strategic planning, investment and real collaboration between Stormont, policymakers, businesses and communities.
One question remains – who is it in the driving seat?
:: Ciarán O Neill is commercial director at Radius Vehicle Solution