All new heavy goods vehicles in the UK will be zero-emission by 2040, the UK government has confirmed.
This, combined with the UK’s 2030 phase out for petrol and diesel cars and vans, represents a pledge to end the sale of all polluting road vehicles within the next 2 decades.
The UK will become the first country in the world to commit to phasing out new, non-zero emission heavy goods vehicles weighing 26t and under by 2035, with all new HGVs sold in the UK to be zero emission by 2040.
The UK government is also unveiling a new design for electric vehicle chargepoints, which could become as iconic as the Great British post box, London bus or black cab.
Showcased in the UK Pavilion at COP26 and designed together with the Royal College of Art and PA Consulting, the concept prioritises inclusivity and ease of use, designed with consumers, local government, accessibility groups and industry.
UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:
From our roads to the skies, the transition to zero emission transport has reached a tipping point. We know that transport plays a key role saving the planet from warming above 1.5°, which is why this is the COP that will kick start our ambition for zero emission aviation.
“This is why I’m proud to be uniting world leaders to tackle climate change – creating new opportunities for clean growth, green jobs and improved air quality right across the globe.”
