When will diesel cars be banned in the UK?

DIESEL has been the go-to fuel source for high-mileage drivers for decades and is in common usage across the UK, powering a variety of different vehicles.

But the sale of diesel cars is set to be banned — here we take look at why.

When will diesel cars be banned in the UK?

During Boris Johnson’s tenure as leader, the government announced the plan to ban all new petrol or diesel cars by the year 2030.

A statement said: “Following extensive consultation with car manufacturers and sellers, the Prime Minister has confirmed that the UK will end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030, ten years earlier than planned.

“However we will allow the sale of hybrid cars that can drive a significant distance without emitting carbon until 2035.”

But in a speech from Downing Street in September 2023, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the ban would be delayed until 2035.

Mr Sunak said: “To give us more time to prepare, I’m announcing today that we’re going to ease the transition to electric vehicles.

“You’ll still be able to buy petrol and diesel cars and vans until 2035.

“Even after that, you will still be able to buy and sell them second-hand.”

On electric vehicles, he added: “I expect that by 2030, the vast majority of cars sold will be electric.

“Why? Because the costs are reducing, the range is improving, the charging infrastructure is growing.”

But at the time of the announcement Labour pledged to retain the 2030 target for electric cars if it won the next election.

This was confirmed in the party’s manifesto, which stated it would reinstate the original timeline to outlaw the sale of new fossil fuel cars.

The party said it would “support the transition to electric vehicles” by accelerating the rollout of charge points.

Why will be diesel cars be banned?

Diesel cars will be banned as part of a government plan to reduce the UK’s contribution to climate change.

The ban on petrol and diesel cars is part of the overall strategy to cut carbon emissions in the UK. 

This idea was revealed by the government in November 2020.

Can you still drive a diesel car after 2030?

The regulations will not effect cars that are already owned, with drivers able to wait until they’re ready to change to a car running on alternative fuel.

It also means that you would still be able to buy a used diesel, as the government plan is based around the production of new petrol and diesel cars.

Drivers with an interest in eco-friendly motoring ahead of the 2030 petrol diesel ban can take advantage of car scrappage schemes.

What should you buy instead of a diesel car?

There are several new cars on the market that run using alternative forms of power.

Fully electric cars are more expensive to buy, but they don’t produce any exhaust emissions, meaning it is kinder on the environment.

Some hybrids have been given a stay of execution until 2035 in the UK, so that could also be a viable option for the time being.