Feature

Are we stuck in the ICE age?

The headlines around electric vehicles (EVs) have been less than optimistic recently. While the news cycle is negative, the reality is that we must continue to push for the electrification of all transportation to align with global climate targets. So, what can automakers and OEMs do to support the electric shift? Mark Barfield, Engineering Manager at Cressall, shares his insight.

02/04/2024 12:35:46

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About 26 million EVs have been sold to date, according to the International Energy Agency. That includes plug-in hybrids, which have an internal combustion engine alongside a battery. But what appears to be an impressive figure is just a fraction of the total car stock of 1.3 billion. While sales have been on the increase, slow charging times and the need for comprehensive charging infrastructure remain barriers and recent negative press around the EV rollout could hamper uptake.

As 2024 progresses, the most crucial piece of news surrounding the UK's EV rollout relates to the Government's U-turn on the ban on new petrol and diesel-powered vehicles, pushing back the deadline from 2030 to 2035.

Consumer attitudes
We all know that most people need to work to an imminent deadline in order to make a change. This goes for the shift to EVs too. Consumers now have an extra five years to consider how and when they're going to go electric, and they're likely to take advantage of that extra time.

According to The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in September 2023, prior to the ban being announced, the battery EV market share grew for the 41st consecutive month with over 45,000 drivers making the switch.

But this growth is likely to stall. The Government’s U-turn will certainly raise concerns about EVs’ ability to replace ICE vehicles. Is the charging infrastructure up to scratch right now? Can EVs deliver the vehicle range required for all drivers? This, in turn, generates issues for manufacturers.

Read the full article in DPA's April issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.