Unite, is calling on the government to reduce the percentages of the ZEV (zero emission vehicles), the union which represents tens of thousands of automotive workers, believes that the current system is fundamentally flawed and is threatening employment.

Ridiculous targets 

Under the ZEV mandate car makers are required to ensure that they make an increasing percentage of electric vehicles sales each year. They receive credits for electric car sales and are fined if they don’t hit the targets which increase on a yearly basis.

However, there is a growing gap between the number of electric vehicle sale being made by UK car makers (roughly 25 per cent) and the government’s target. This year’s target is for 33 per cent electric vehicle sales. 

Unite believes the overall target of how many electric vehicles each car maker produces compared to internal combustion models should be reduced and then there is also a reduction in yearly targets.

Jobs fears 

It is feared that without radical action from government, the gap between the ZEV mandate and the actual number of car sales will this year cost UK automotive producers in the region of £11,000 in fines per vehicle. Unite is concerned that car makers will simply opt to stop selling cars rather than risk fines. Such a decision threatens UK jobs.

The government must also invest in the infrastructure around electric vehicles including rapid charge plug in points and battery plants.

Immediate action needed

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The current ZEV mandate is significantly contributing to the loss of automotive jobs in Britain. This is a clear fact. The targets must be radically reduced. 

“The automotive industry is a jewel in the crown of UK manufacturing. Of which thousands of jobs depend.  If the government sits on its hands it will be responsible for the decimation of the automotive industry.”

Meanwhile the credit system is only benefiting Chinese car makers and Tesla.

ENDS
 
Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications advisor Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Twitter: @unitetheunion Facebook: unitetheunion1 Instagram: unitetheunion Web: unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The