The 2035 Petrol Ban: What It Means for UK Drivers
Prepare your household and business for the UK’s shift to EVs
The UK government has confirmed a major step in its journey towards net-zero emissions: the UK ban on petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035. This EV legislation will drastically reshape how we drive, fuel, and think about transport. For drivers, households, and businesses alike, understanding what this means is essential to EV readiness.
What Is the 2035 UK Petrol Ban?
Originally proposed for 2030, the UK petrol ban was revised to 2035. From that year onwards, no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold. Only fully electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles will be available to purchase new. This move is part of a wider commitment to cleaner air, reduced emissions, and a sustainable transport infrastructure.
Importantly, the law does not affect used cars. Petrol and diesel vehicles already on the road can continue to be driven, bought, or sold on the second-hand market. However, with rising fuel costs and tighter vehicle regulations, the pressure to go electric will intensify.
Why Is the UK Banning Petrol and Diesel Vehicles?
The ban supports several environmental and public health goals:
- Cutting down carbon emissions from transport (which contributes about 25% of total UK emissions)
- Meeting net-zero targets by 2050
- Reducing air pollution in cities and towns
- Encouraging investment in green transport laws in the UK and clean energy
Transitioning to electric cars in the UK is a pivotal part of this strategy.
In addition to environmental benefits, this shift also has economic implications. The UK government aims to position the country as a leader in the global EV market. This includes support for domestic EV manufacturing, battery development, and expanding the charging network to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with rising demand.
How to Prepare for the Petrol Ban
Whether you’re a homeowner, driver, or business owner, here’s how to stay ahead:
1. Switch to an Electric Vehicle (EV)
Start exploring your EV options. From hatchbacks to SUVs, electric vehicles are becoming more affordable and offer lower running costs. Government grants and incentives also support new buyers. Additionally, EVs require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, which helps reduce long-term ownership costs.
2. Install a Home EV Charger
A reliable EV charger at home makes daily charging convenient and cost-effective. At McNally EV, we specialise in home EV charger installations that are efficient, future-ready, and fully compliant with UK regulations. With smart charging technology, homeowners can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates and even integrate solar panels for greener energy use.
Learn more about Home EV Charger Installation
3. Plan for Business EV Infrastructure
Businesses can also prepare by installing workplace chargers and switching to electric fleets. This not only ensures compliance with future UK car law but also improves green credentials. Offering EV charging facilities can also attract eco-conscious customers and employees.
Explore Commercial EV Charging Solutions
4. Stay Updated on EV Legislation
As the electric car legislation UK continues to evolve, staying informed will help you make smarter investment decisions and ensure full compliance. Keep an eye on changes in grant schemes, tax benefits, and regulations that may affect how and when you transition to electricity.
What Does This Mean for Existing Vehicles?
If you own a petrol or diesel vehicle, you don’t need to panic. The UK ban on petrol and diesel vehicles 2035 applies only to the sale of new cars. However, market trends suggest petrol vehicle values may decline, and insurance and fuel costs could rise. Planning your transition to an EV sooner rather than later could save you money and stress.
It’s also worth considering how future low-emission zones or congestion charges could impact your ability to drive certain models in urban areas. These factors may accelerate the move toward electrification even before the ban takes effect.
Addressing Common Concerns About EVs
Range Anxiety
Modern EVs offer ranges that easily cover daily commutes and more, with some models exceeding 300 miles per charge. The UK’s charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, with more public chargers being installed every month.
Charging Times
While home charging overnight is the most common method, rapid chargers at service stations and public areas can deliver up to 80% charge in under 30 minutes, making long journeys more feasible.
Battery Lifespan and Recycling
EV batteries typically last over 8-10 years with proper care. Moreover, recycling programmes are improving, and battery second-life applications (such as home energy storage) are becoming more widespread.
Not sure when’s best to charge? Try our charging calculator to estimate charging times and energy savings based on your car model and schedule.
The EV Future for UK Drivers
Originally proposed for 2030, the UK petrol ban was revised to 2035. From that year onwards, no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold. Only fully electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles will be available to purchase new. This move is part of a wider commitment to cleaner air, reduced emissions, and a sustainable transport infrastructure.
Importantly, the law does not affect used cars. Petrol and diesel vehicles already on the road can continue to be driven, bought, or sold on the second-hand market. However, with rising fuel costs and tighter vehicle regulations, the pressure to go electric will intensify.
Wrapping up
The 2035 UK petrol ban marks a turning point in transport policy. For drivers and businesses alike, now is the time to embrace electric mobility, prepare infrastructure, and stay informed about evolving EV legislation and vehicle regulations.
Whether you’re planning to upgrade your vehicle, install a home charger, or electrify your fleet, the sooner you act, the better positioned you’ll be for a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Contact McNally EV today to schedule your EV charger installation and join the green energy movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is being banned in 2035?
From 2035, the UK government will ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans. Only fully electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles will be allowed to be sold as new. This does not affect second-hand petrol or diesel vehicles.
2. Can I still drive my petrol or diesel car after 2035?
Yes. The ban only applies to new vehicle sales. Existing petrol and diesel vehicles can still be driven, bought, and sold on the used market beyond 2035.
3. Why was the ban pushed back from 2030 to 2035?
The government extended the deadline to give consumers and manufacturers more time to transition and to support further development of EV infrastructure and technology.
4. Will hybrid vehicles also be banned?
Yes, by 2035, even plug-in hybrids will no longer be sold new. Only zero-emission vehicles will meet the new standards set out by UK legislation.
5. What support is available for switching to an electric vehicle?
The government offers various grants for EV buyers and funding for home and workplace charger installations. Additionally, EVs benefit from lower running costs, tax incentives, and exemptions from congestion charges
6. How can I prepare my home for an electric vehicle?
Installing a dedicated home EV charger is the best first step. McNally EV provides professional home EV charger installations tailored to your vehicle, energy needs, and budget.
7. Is the UK’s charging infrastructure ready for this transition?
While still expanding, the UK’s EV charging network is growing rapidly. With thousands of public chargers already available and significant investment planned, access will continue to improve ahead of the 2035 deadline.