Jersey officials have abandoned plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars following strong opposition from the public.
Consultation Reveals Widespread Concerns
A public consultation drew more than 2,000 responses, with 63% of individuals and 79% of organizations indicating they anticipated negative effects from the proposed rule.
Environment Minister Steve Luce emphasized that the majority opposed the phase-out. He stated: “We do not need to create costly new legislation, as the changes in the UK will cascade to the local market automatically. I therefore will not be introducing limitations on the importation and registration of fossil fuel vehicles.”
Luce added: “It is very clear… that the majority of respondents were not in favour of the proposed phase-out. They wanted to retain freedom of choice when selecting vehicles.”
Second Policy Reversal
This marks the second reversal by Jersey authorities, who previously dropped plans to extend the ban to used vehicles. Officials reaffirm their commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
UK Proceeds with 2030 Ban Despite Opposition
In contrast, the UK plans to implement the ban on new combustion engine sales by 2030, even amid mixed public sentiment. A YouGov poll of 5,609 adults showed 58% opposition, including 36% who strongly opposed it, while only 29% supported the policy.
Last month, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) urged revisions to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, describing current electric vehicle sales targets as “fantasy.”
Labour ministers declined calls for an early review, with Keir Mather explaining: “It is beginning this year, but early 2027, we feel, is the right point to make sure that we can test properly where the pressure points lie in the ZEV mandate and make sure that it continues to work for manufacturers. The government is incredibly clear that the EV transition is something that we stand resolutely behind.”
