The ban on new petrol and diesel cars: Everything you need to know
The Government has confirmed it will ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, but what does this really mean for motorists?
Key Takeaways
Government confirms 2030 date for petrol and diesel car ban
The ban only applies to new petrol and diesel cars, not used cars
Disincentives expected on petrol and diesel cars such as increased taxes, higher fuel costs and potentially limited parking
Labour confirms 2030 date for the petrol and diesel car ban
Secretary for Transport, Heidi Alexander, has confirmed ‘no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold after 2030′. This comes after the previous Conservative Government pushed the ban back to 2035.
2030 is the official deadline for the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, and 2035 has been confirmed as the deadline for manufacturers to make ‘all new cars and vans 100 per cent zero emission’.
How will the new petrol and diesel car ban affect drivers?
Essentially, it means that you won’t be able to buy a new petrol or diesel vehicle after the ban comes into effect. It hasn’t been confirmed whether drivers will be able to buy new hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles.
The ban doesn’t stop you from driving a petrol or diesel vehicle you already own. You’ll also be able to buy used petrol and diesel cars. The petrol and diesel car ban will focus only on new cars.
There are likely to be disincentives in order to stop drivers from using petrol and diesel cars and instead switch to electric vehicles (EVs). There could be extra taxes, increased fuel fees or even parking restrictions once EV chargers become more widespread.
What are the next steps?
Heidi Alexander has announced a consultation with the Department for Transport (DfT) to help clarify details surrounding the ban. The consultation will end on 18 February 2025. The DfT will then work with stakeholders (ie manufacturers and drivers) to implement suggestions to make the transition easier.
If you’d like to have your say regarding the issue, you can visit the government website and fill out a response form or write an email.
If you’re worried about your carbon footprint, check out 1st Central’s guide to green driving before the ban comes into effect.
FAQs
When does the UK ban on new petrol and diesel cars take effect?
The UK government has confirmed that the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned from 2030. This policy aims to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and reduce carbon emissions.
Are hybrid cars included in the 2030 petrol and diesel car ban?
Not immediately. While new petrol and diesel cars will be banned from 2030, hybrid vehicles—including full hybrids and plug-in hybrids—can continue to be sold until 2035, provided they offer a significant zero-emission driving range.
Can I still drive my petrol or diesel car after 2030?
Yes. The ban applies only to the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles. Existing vehicles can still be owned, driven, and sold on the second-hand market beyond 2030.
Will there be enough charging infrastructure to support the transition?
The UK government is investing in expanding the charging infrastructure, aiming to ensure that EV charging is as convenient as refueling petrol or diesel vehicles. This includes installing rapid chargers along major roads and in urban areas.
What happens to petrol cars after 2035?
Petrol and diesel cars will not be banned outright in 2035, but the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be phased out in the UK and many other countries. Existing petrol vehicles will still be legal to drive, sell, and maintain. However, governments are encouraging a transition to electric vehicles (EVs) through incentives and stricter emissions regulations, which could affect petrol car running costs and resale value.
Will petrol be available after 2040?
Petrol is expected to remain available after 2040. Fuel stations may gradually reduce petrol pump capacity as demand falls, but classic and existing petrol vehicles will still require fuel. However, petrol may become more expensive or limited in rural areas as infrastructure shifts toward EV charging networks.
Will petrol cars be worthless in 5 years?
Petrol cars are unlikely to become worthless in the next five years. However, their resale value may decline as demand for electric vehicles increases and regulations become stricter. Factors such as fuel efficiency, emissions, and maintenance history will influence resale value. Certain models with high fuel efficiency and low emissions may retain value better than older or high-emission vehicles. The government's commitment to phasing out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 may influence market dynamics.
What will happen to classic cars when petrol is banned?
Classic cars will still be permitted on the roads even after the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales. Owners can continue to drive, maintain, and restore vintage petrol vehicles. Some cities may impose low-emission zone restrictions, but many countries offer exemptions or special permits for historic vehicles. Additionally, alternative fuels and electric conversions are options for classic car enthusiasts.
When should I sell my petrol car?
The optimal time to sell your petrol car depends on various factors, including its age, mileage, and condition. Selling before major depreciation milestones, such as 60,000 miles, can help retain value. Additionally, market trends indicate that selling during periods of high demand, like March and September when new registration plates are released, may yield better prices. With the government's plan to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, considering a transition to electric vehicles sooner may be advantageous.
What is the average lifespan of a petrol car?
The average lifespan of a modern petrol car is approximately 11 to 14 years or around 200,000 miles, depending on maintenance, driving conditions, and build quality. Regular servicing and timely repairs can significantly extend a vehicle's usable life. While the UK government does not specify average vehicle lifespans, these figures are consistent with industry standards.
Are electric cars cheaper to run?
Yes, electric cars are generally cheaper to run than petrol vehicles. They have lower fuel costs per mile, reduced maintenance expenses due to fewer moving parts, and often benefit from tax incentives. For instance, charging an electric car can cost as little as 2 pence per mile, compared to higher costs for petrol vehicles. Additionally, the UK government offers various incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.