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Dealers had a lack of confidence in government that it could deliver the necessary support the industry needs to achieve the 2030 deadline ICE sale ban.
That’s the view of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK.
It surveyed its members last month and found that 60% of dealers supported an alignment with the European Union’s 2035 deadline.
NFDA CEO Sue Robinson, said: “Our survey indicates that UK franchised dealers, the customer-facing section of the industry, did not think that the UK’s 2030 target was achievable within the existing EV incentive framework and supports a move towards aligning the UK market with the European Union.
“Ultimately, the phasing out of ICE vehicles in the UK requires a clear strategy from the government to achieve it, it must be supported by forward thinking legislation and attractive initiatives to encourage motorists in making the shift. If the UK is to reach its 2050 net-zero targets it needs to support the automotive industry, now more than ever.”
Dealers have also raised concerns over the charging infrastructure. Pendragon CEO Bill Berman said the infrastructure was a real challenge.
“I think in the UK that 2030 target is going to have to be modified. I just don’t see how you get there. They are absolutely going to have a look at that and find some different ways.”