Staggering poll shows 94 percent oppose Zero Emission Vehicle mandate

The UK Government is preparing to introduce a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which would require manufacturers to ensure electric vehicles (EVs) make up an ever-increasing percentage of sales. Proposed targets suggest that a minimum proportion of 22 percent should be zero-emission from 2024. However, a new Express.co.uk poll has shown that just six percent of readers support the policy.

The Government’s consultation was launched last month as part of the new Powering Up Britain Strategy to increase the uptake of EVs ahead of the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles. 

EV campaign group FairCharge Founder Quentin Wilson said he was “delighted” the Government had not “watered down” the ZEV mandate.

He said: “We know the Government has read our many letters and listened to feedback from our meetings with ministers to stay strong on future EV production targets and we’re delighted that they haven’t caved into vested interests. 

“These targets will send a clear message to the EV sector that UK electrification of road transport is here to stay and will benefit future generations with more highly skilled jobs, greater levels of investment, more charging infrastructure and cleaner urban air. This is a good day for British drivers.”

READ MORE: Petrol and diesel car ban to be ‘eased’ by ‘monumental’ ZEV mandate

In a poll that ran from 7am on Friday, March 31, to 8.30am on Wednesday, April 12, Express.co.uk asked readers: “Do you support Government’s new Zero Emission Vehicle mandate?”

Overall, 4,055 readers responded, with the overwhelming majority, 94 percent (3,813 people), answering, “no”, against the ZEV mandate, compared to six percent (228 people) who said, “yes”, in support of the policy. Just 14 people said they did not know.

Dozens of comments were left below the accompanying article as readers debated the new mandate.

The predominant argument was against the proposed ZEV targets, with username Laurie366 writing: “Pointless bringing in electric everything if the infrastructure and commodities are not in place.”

Another, username ColinKnight, said: “ZEV in 2024 and the ban on petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 amounts to a wickedly ignorant plan to destroy Britain.”

Similarly, username Oneofakind added: “The Government are going to have riots on its hands trying to push that legislation through. You cannot force untried, disputed and unpopular stuff on the public any more.”

However, a minority of readers thought more favourably about the drive towards greener vehicles, with username Sailorsgirl commenting: “We cannot expect big climate change until we all embrace the changes wholeheartedly…not in another 13 years, but within two years. Why not be the country to lead the way, not follow everywhere else?”