A new report published by Greenpeace UK is suggesting that an early ban on combustion engines could provide a £4.2 billion boost to the economy.

Compiled by Cambridge Econometrics, the report uses the Department for Transport’s own data modelling to demonstrate that an earlier switch to EVs, from the current 2035 deadline, could provide 32,000 new jobs and give the motoring industry a much needed stimulus.

With Prime Minister Boris Johnson expected to make an announcement on any revision later this week, Greenpeace activists attempted to drive electric-powered remote control cars to raise awareness of the earlier proposed date of 2030.

It is believed that the UK government may favour a two-stage approach, with petrol and diesel banned by 2030 and hybrids banned by 2035.

Greenpeace UK’s policy director, Doug Parr, said, “Now more than ever we need bold government policies that create new jobs and economic growth whilst driving the UK forward on climate action. Here – staring Boris Johnson right in the face – is one that will do just that, while making the UK a world leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. Delivered with the right policies, a 2030 phase out really would be win-win all round.

“The government no longer has any excuses. We need a firm commitment to ban new polluting cars and vans by 2030, along with an active industrial strategy to boost manufacturing and support re-skilling, so workers can benefit from new jobs that will be created across the economy. The rewards are there for the taking. It’s time for the Prime Minister to plug in and put electric vehicles on a fast track to 2030.”

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