Addison Lee CEO concerned by Prime Minister’s delay to ban new petrol and diesel sales

Image credit: Addison Lee

Addison Lee's CEO, Liam Griffin, has expressed concerns regarding the recent announcement made by the Prime Minister to delay the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales until 2035.

Griffin highlighted the challenges faced by businesses like Addison Lee in their efforts to transition towards electric vehicles and create a greener London. He believes that the lack of reliable and readily available charging infrastructure remains the most significant obstacle.

In the past, charging providers had been confident that a 2030 ban would result in a guaranteed increase in the number of electric vehicles on the road, thus necessitating the implementation of additional charging facilities throughout the city. However, Griffin suggests that with the new delay, this assurance no longer exists, which in turn jeopardises the expansion of charging infrastructure in London.

Griffin said: "As a leader in the transition to electric, we know how difficult the shift has been for businesses looking to create a greener London. The reliability and availability of charging infrastructure continues to be the most significant barrier.

“Where charging providers once had confidence that a 2030 ban meant a guaranteed increase in the number of electric vehicles on the road – and therefore a greater need for charging provision across the city – they no longer have this assurance, putting the roll-out of further infrastructure at risk.

“Pulling back on the 2030 commitment reduces the ability of operators to confidently invest in the transition. Similarly, in London, the removal of financial incentives - such as the electric vehicle exemptions within London’s Congestion Zone - will deter many from moving to EVs and slow the reduction of air pollution across the capital."