In recent years, global efforts toward sustainable energy solutions have accelerated a variety of initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
One of the initiatives that has been making headlines this month is the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Governments around the world are implementing policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and other clean transportation alternatives to combat climate change, with at least 22% of all new car sales as of January 3rd. are required to be zero-emission vehicles. It has become law in England, Scotland and Wales.
Despite the devolution policy being developed with the Scottish Government, Welsh Government and Northern Ireland Department for Infrastructure, the mandate will not come into force here until Stormont’s remediation is agreed.
Does this mean that, like in many other sectors, we are in danger of stalling in terms of progress and easily accepting the inevitable transition to greener vehicles?
necessarily.
The positive outcome of the ZEV mandate coming into force in other parts of the UK is substantially discounting manufacturers, in stimulating the electric vehicle market across the ocean. Regardless of whether Stormont is repaired or not, drivers in NI will benefit from these cost incentives as many cars currently on the roads are already sourced from GB.
Moreover, does the absence of a mandate really matter when we are already seeing an increase in the availability of EV models, changes in driver attitudes towards electric vehicles, and improvements in charging infrastructure?
Radius Vehicle Solutions has seen a significant increase in orders for electric or hybrid vehicles, from 50% in 2021 to 70% in 2023.
The reason is obvious. Local businesses understand the tax savings they can make by converting their corporate and company cars to zero-emissions vehicles, and they are doing so. Companies can meet mandate goals even in the absence of regulations simply by being willing to electrify their vehicles.
Drivers themselves are now more aware than ever of the benefits, as well as the pitfalls, associated with petrol and diesel cars.
For example, the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement late last year scrapped the 5p per liter fuel tax that came into effect in 2022. This is due to come into effect in March, making fuel expensive for households again.
That said, there is still a long way to go and perhaps the absence of mandatory obligations such as the ZEV obligation will only lead to unnecessary delays in the speed with which Northern Ireland can meet the challenges ahead. This means expanding the charging network to accommodate the ever-increasing number of EVs.
This expansion will require strategic planning, investment and real collaboration between Stormont, policy makers, businesses and communities.
One question remains – who is in the driver’s seat?
:: Ciarán O Neill is Commercial Director at Radius Vehicle Solution