Trade union Unite has raised concerns that thousands of automotive jobs in the UK could be jeopardised if immediate reforms are not made to the government’s Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) mandate.

The trade union has submitted its strategy to the UK Department for Transport’s consultation on the mandate, emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach to electrification.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated that the current mandate’s focus on boosting electric vehicle (EV) sales alone is not enough to encourage the electrification of the UK road transport network.

Graham stated: “The reforms laid out in Unite’s strategy are sensible and achievable. They will further the government’s Net Zero plans by incentivising EV sales, as well as spurring UK vehicle production and providing protections for thousands of automotive workers.” 

The union’s proposals include additional credits for UK-manufactured vehicles, ‘bundling’ EV and low-emission commercial vehicles with passenger vehicle thresholds and allowing exported EVs to count towards credits.

Unite is also advocating for the UK’s planned ban on internal combustion engine vehicles to remain aligned with the European Union’s 2035 deadline.

The union stresses that a proven strategy to protect jobs is essential, which the current ZEV Mandate does not ensure.

In addition to mandate reforms, Unite has called for broader measures to support the UK’s automotive industry and expand the EV market.

The initiatives include reducing VAT on domestically produced EVs for individual buyers, enhancing investment in charging infrastructure, and implementing measures to prevent excessive energy pricing to ensure more affordable charging costs.

Unite national officer for the automotive sector Des Quinn said: “The UK’s automotive industry is at a crucial juncture. Thousands of jobs depend on the government’s automotive vision and the support it will put in place to make sure the current low-volume crisis does not permanently shrink the industry.

“Labour’s long-awaited Industrial Strategy must deliver a route through the seismic shifts impacting the sector that provides a just transition for the country’s auto workers.”

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