Motorcycles not included in Government's new 2030 combustion vehicle phase out consultation

The UK Government has today launched an online consultation looking into the phase-out of new petrol and diesel car and van sales by 2030, with a spokesperson for the Department for Transport (DfT) confirming to MCN that motorcycles are not included as part of the document.

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The date for new car and van sales was pushed back to 2035 by previous Conservative Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, but the new Labour Government are planning to bring the date forward once more.

“In the move away from combustion vehicles to those powered by electricity, the automotive sector is almost uniquely placed in its ability to deliver huge cuts in carbon emissions, and to deliver them quickly,” a document produced by the DfT read.

“All new cars and vans will need to be 100% zero emission by 2035. And no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold after 2030.”

The document is largely a technical discussion on the intricacies of various types of hybrid vehicle, and how plug-ins may play a part in the transition between full combustion, and full electric between 2030 and 2035.

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Although many will rejoice at the lack of inclusion for petrol motorcycles, it continues to leave the wider industry in the dark about its future, with no fixed deadlines for transition continuing to make life difficult for the UK arms of global manufacturers, as well as dealerships, technicians, customers, and more.