How Do Other Countries Compare to the UK's Petrol Deadline?

Following the lead of France, the UK has just unveiled a radical new fossil fuel sanction that will see sales of all new petrol and diesel-powered cars banned by 2040. But Britain isn’t the only one racing to go green…

At least 10 other countries have already set ambitious sales targets for electric cars, despite the fact that currently they account for just 3% of global auto sales. According to IHS Markit, such promises represent lofty “political statements” as opposed to realistic goals.

"It's really unclear,” comments Al Bedwell, a director at LMC Automotive. “These are political statements. Until we get more details, it's really hard to understand what the implications really are.”

So what countries have pledged what?

Britain

The UK has announced plans to ban sales of new gasoline and diesel cars starting in 2040, as part of its nationwide effort to clean up British air and tackle the pollution crisis. By 2050 all cars will need to have zero emissions, with UK environment secretary Michael Gove stressing that "we can't carry on with diesel and petrol cars. There is no alternative to embracing new technology."

France

Prior to the British announcement, the French government announced plans to end sales of gas and diesel-powered vehicles by 2040 in a bid to combat global warming. Nicolas Hulot, the government representative responsible for France's "ecological transition" maintains that the goal will help French automakers "innovate and become market leaders."

India

India is one of the most polluted nations on the planet, and suffers from an acute air quality problem. Now New Delhi is taking action with plans that every vehicle sold in the country should be powered by electricity by 2030.

"This is an aspirational target," admits Anil Kumar Jain, a government energy adviser. "Ultimately the logic of markets will prevail."

Norway

Outlining a clear target, Norway has introduced new laws that all passenger cars and vans sold in 2025 should be 100% emission free. The country is already considered a global leader in this area, with around 40% of all cars sold in 2016 either electric or hybrid vehicles.

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