December/January 2022

T he automotive industry cautiously welcomed the government’s recently published road to net zero strategy. Issued in the weeks before the COP 26 conference, the plan lays out a roadmap for the UK to cut its contribution to climate change down to zero by 2050, and covers industry, aviation, home-heating as well as transport. Among the measures is an additional £350 million for the pre-existing UK £1 billion commitment to aid vehicle electrification, along with £620 million for specific EV grants and infrastructure, focused on local on-street residential charging points. Commenting on the plan, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “By moving first and taking bold action, we will build a defining competitive edge in electric vehicles, offshore wind, carbon capture technology and more, whilst supporting people and businesses along the way.” Combination Commenting on the plan, NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson observed: “A combination of financial support measures such as the plug-in electric vehicle grant and a reliable, easy-to-access charging infrastructure is vital to ensure that the majority of motorists embrace the 60 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022 TECHNICAL/EVS AND HYBRIDS www.aftermarketonline.net Shortly before COP 26. the automotive sector responded to the recent announcement of the UK’s Net Zero strategy BOLD ACTION transition to zero emissions. Although it is unclear how the funds will be allocated, these investments represent a positive step. It is imperative that the government continues to support vehicle retailers and consumers to accomplish the ambitious goal of ending the sale of internal combustion vehicles by 2030/2035 and reaching net zero emissions by 2050. “To help achieve these targets, NFDA has been working closely with its franchised dealer members to facilitate the transition to zero emissions through our government- backed Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) accreditation scheme. This recognises retailers’ expertise in the sector and supports consumer confidence. We look forward to seeing further details about the government’s plans.” Beyond the shift to EVs, more effective enforcement of current emissions regulations is being called for by BM Catalysts, including a clampdown on the use of lower quality emissions control devices, including catalytic converters, with a view to bringing down vehicle emissions. Following the release of the government publication ‘Decarbonising Transport: A better, Greener, Britain’, the company called for a more detailed plan. BM Catalysts Managing Director Toby Massey said: “We must not forget the role the automotive aftermarket can