The House of Lords’ Environment and Climate Change Committee has launched an inquiry into the UK government’s plan to transition to electric cars and vans by 2030. The committee aims to identify the main barriers to reducing private transport emissions and understand the costs and potential benefits associated with the 2030 ban on sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles.

The inquiry also seeks to assess the progress made towards the 2030 and 2035 targets, when sales of new hybrid cars will also be banned. Committee chair Baroness Kate Parminter emphasized the importance of individual actions in achieving the goal of net-zero emissions, stating that using electric vehicles (EVs) for passenger transport is a crucial part of this effort.

To gather evidence and insights, the committee has invited the public to submit their views on various aspects of the government’s approach to the transition. These include the feasibility of the 2030 and 2035 targets, the EV market, user experience, end-of-life disposal of EVs, infrastructural issues at national and regional levels, and international perspectives.

The call for evidence comes at a time when the phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles has faced scrutiny from high-profile newspapers and government officials. Business secretary Kemi Badenoch has reportedly sought to relax the incoming zero emission vehicle mandate, which requires that 22% of all new vehicle sales be EVs from 2024, with an increasing proportion each year thereafter. Badenoch’s aim is to protect the UK’s automotive industry, which is currently facing challenges due to the transition.

The committee’s inquiry will play a crucial role in assessing the feasibility and impact of the government’s plan. It will provide an opportunity for stakeholders and experts to contribute their perspectives and insights, ensuring that the transition to electric vehicles is well-informed and effective.

The deadline for submitting evidence is Friday, September 15th. Interested parties are encouraged to review the full list of questions and submit their responses through the committee’s website.

The transition to electric vehicles is a key component of the UK’s strategy to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles, the government aims to significantly reduce air pollution and improve public health. Additionally, the widespread adoption of EVs will contribute to the country’s efforts to achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2050.

However, there are several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure a successful transition. One of the main barriers is the availability and accessibility of charging infrastructure. To encourage more people to switch to EVs, there needs to be a comprehensive network of charging stations across the country. This will alleviate concerns about range anxiety and provide drivers with the confidence to make the switch.

Another challenge is the affordability of electric vehicles. While the cost of EVs has been decreasing in recent years, they are still more expensive than their petrol and diesel counterparts. The government can play a crucial role in addressing this issue by providing incentives and subsidies to make EVs more affordable for consumers.

Furthermore, there is a need to address the end-of-life disposal of EVs. As more EVs enter the market, there will be a growing number of batteries that need to be recycled or disposed of properly. Developing sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for battery disposal is essential to ensure that the transition to electric vehicles does not create new environmental challenges.

In conclusion, the House of Lords’ Environment and Climate Change Committee’s inquiry into the transition to electric vehicles is a significant step towards achieving the UK’s decarbonization goals. By identifying barriers, assessing progress, and gathering evidence, the committee will provide valuable insights and recommendations to guide the government’s efforts. With effective policies and investments in charging infrastructure, affordability, and end-of-life disposal, the UK can successfully transition to a greener and more sustainable transport system.