Hybrid cars exempt from UK’s 2030 petrol and diesel ban

• New hybrid cars on sale until 2035
• DfT statement acknowledges difficulty in transitioning to EVs
• Which types of hybrid cars affected still unclear

The sale of some hybrid models will continue until 2035, offering more time for consumers to transition to electric vehicles.

A Department for Transport spokesperson explained: “The original phase-out date included the provision for some hybrid vehicle sales between 2030 and 2035.”

While the ban on petrol and diesel cars remains firm, the exemption acknowledges the ongoing demand for hybrids and the current limitations in electric vehicle infrastructure. The hybrid landscape, however, remains varied, and it’s still unclear which types of hybrids will be allowed to remain on sale.

Types of Hybrid Vehicles

There are three common types of hybrid cars: mild, self-charging and plug-in.

Mild Hybrids

These use small electric motors to assist the engine but never operate solely on electric power. It’s unlikely they’ll remain on sale post-2030.

Self-charging Hybrids

Known as conventional hybrids, these vehicles, like the Toyota Yaris, recharge their batteries through the engine and braking. It’s unclear whether these will be sold beyond 2030.

Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs)

These can be charged using an electric plug and can typically run between 20-80 miles in electric-only mode. Plug-in hybrids are expected to be available until 2035.

In response to the announcement, Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), emphasised the challenges ahead. “Massive investment by the industry in EVs has delivered tremendous choice to consumers, driving record levels of uptake. However, accelerating that uptake is tough. Regulation can compel supply but not demand. Manufacturer discounting cannot continue indefinitely, so fulfilling consumer expectations while meeting government regulations will require action, including fiscal incentives and a rapid chargepoint rollout.”

This sentiment highlights the delicate balance between regulation, industry investments, and consumer adoption. While the government’s hybrid exemption aims to ease the transition, significant investments in infrastructure and financial support will be crucial to ensuring the success of the UK’s long-term decarbonisation goals.

The next steps from the government will be to outline which hybrid models will qualify for sale after 2030 and how the automotive market will be supported in the transition to a fully electric future. For now, consumers and manufacturers alike will be closely watching for further details on the road ahead.

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