Setting a single date for ending the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles would be a mistake, the BVRLA has said.

The Government announced in February that the ban on selling new petrol, diesel or hybrid cars in the UK will be brought forward from 2040 to 2035 at the latest.

However, the British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association (BVLR) has warned that this is an ‘unambitious target’ for some market segments but a ‘near impossible challenge for others.’

The BVLR says that rather than have a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to fleet decarbonisation, it would be better if policymakers focus on different parts of the vehicle market, providing the appropriate support and phase out targets for the relevant vehicles.

‘Our response is the culmination of the biggest policy engagement process we have ever undertaken, involving dozens of stakeholders and BVRLA members from across the rental, car club, leasing and fleet management sectors,’ said Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney.

‘The net-zero transition is a huge undertaking and Government must give specific consideration to the demand measures that will drive uptake, the supply measures that will ensure sufficient vehicles are available and the infrastructure measures that will meet different fleet operating requirements.’

The association has asked the Government to undertake a regular review of progress towards any phase out dates, and to only end new hybrid car and van sales if battery electric vehicle supply, affordability and infrastructure is able to meet the requirements of all fleet segments.

The BVRLA has also published new independent tax modelling from Cambridge Econometrics which shows that the Government will need to invest nearly £100bn between now and 2050 if it is to have any chance of meeting its phase out target for the new car market.

‘The Government is about to set road users some very ambitious and expensive targets for decarbonising their fleets,’ said Mr Keaney.

‘BVRLA members are up for the challenge, but Government needs to show similar ambition and investment in providing a supportive policy environment and an effective tax and incentive regime.’