‘Grave Concern’ As UK Sales Decline For Low Emission Vehicles

Car Sales, Hybrid Vehicle, Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV)

Reports have found sales of alternatively-fuelled cars fell for the first time in over 2 years as the car industry continues to steer toward a future of zero-emission electric cars.

The report also highlighted reduced demand for new cars in general with a 4.9% drop in June 2019 versus June 2018. This marks the fourth consecutive monthly decline in 2019.

A decline in demand for low-emission vehicles has been called “a grave concern” by The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) as PHEV sales dropped 50.4% in June 2019 versus June 2018. Hybrid sales also suffered a 4.7% sales reduction during the same time period.

The SMMT points the finger at “confusion over low emission zones and diesel, the removal of ultra low emission vehicle incentives and an overall decline in buyer confidence”.

There are over 350 hybrid vehicle models available to UK car buyers, of which 44 are plug-ins. Scraps (PHEVs) and reductions (battery electric vehicles) in subsidies have led to substantial vehicle manufacturer investment efforts “being undermined” according to Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.

Government cost-saving exercises to bring about a zero-emissions future have been blamed for plant closures, most notably Honda’s Swindon factory and Ford’s Bridgend factory, which focuses upon engine manufacturing.

Mike Hawes identifies the need for “world-class, long-term incentives and substantial investment in infrastructure” if uptake of alternatively-fuelled vehicles is going to be achieved.

What are your thoughts? Has a cut to subsidies put paid to your alternative-fuelled vehicle options? Is the option of a ‘green car’ still too expensive or impractical for you?

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