MPs received a stark warning that confusing government policies and poor communication are undermining the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.
Tanya Sinclair, chief executive of Electric Vehicles UK, told the Environmental Audit Committee that the country’s carbon targets face serious threats from “mixed signals” around the EV shift.
The industry leader’s testimony came during the committee’s inquiry into the UK’s next statutory carbon target for 2038-2042.
“The electrification of transport is a market-led transition. But markets only succeed when policy is consistent. Right now, that consistency is missing.”
Sinclair didn’t hold back in her assessment of government messaging.
“Inconsistent government policy and confused communication are undermining the UK’s shift to electric vehicles.”
Recent Policy Contradictions
Her comments follow Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ autumn Budget announcements – which sent conflicting signals to the EV market.
The Budget promised additional funding for the Electric Car Grant while simultaneously revealing plans for a pay-per-mile tax on EVs. The mixed messaging exemplifies the policy confusion that’s rattling industry confidence.
Sinclair pointed to the 3p-per-mile road tax proposal as a textbook example of how unclear communication destabilizes market behavior.
“Some in the e-mobility sector didn’t realise the new mileage tax was under consultation. That’s how unclear communication has been. The negative impact on market confidence began immediately, even though the policy is potentially years away.”
The damage from premature announcements has already begun affecting consumer choices. Some drivers are shifting from EVs toward full hybrids – behavior that threatens to slow decarbonization efforts at a critical moment.
Misinformation Impact
Rising misinformation around electric vehicles is “directly affecting driver confidence and purchase intent,” Sinclair warned.
Despite charging infrastructure challenges dominating headlines, she emphasized that the fundamentals remain strong.
“We must not let discussion of charging challenges overshadow the fact that the EV market outlook is robust and the vehicles are highly capable.”
She highlighted several key developments that demonstrate EV progress:
- Today’s electric vehicles regularly deliver 300-500 miles of range – compared with under 100 miles just five years ago
- EV and internal combustion engine price parity is expected within the next two years
- Charging infrastructure is “working far better than public perception suggests”
Charging Infrastructure Reality
The charging network rollout needs a fundamental rethink, according to Sinclair’s testimony.
Current approaches prioritize charger quantity over usefulness – creating what she called a “distorted picture of accessibility.”
“Many charging business models were built on utilisation assumptions that no longer reflect how people actually charge their EVs.”
The focus on national charger numbers misses the point entirely.
“Drivers don’t need national charger numbers. They need to know whether charging is available where they live, work and travel.”
Government action could address several bottlenecks hampering infrastructure development. Grid connection delays and planning obstacles remain significant barriers to expanding charging networks effectively.
Staying The Course
With rumors circulating that Europe might delay its ban on combustion engines, Sinclair stressed the importance of maintaining momentum.
The UK must “stay the course” on its 2035 target to phase out internal combustion engines, she argued.
The warning comes as the government balances ambitious climate goals against concerns about EV adoption rates and infrastructure readiness. Clear, consistent messaging will prove crucial for maintaining market confidence during this transition period.
