UK Plans to Ban Sale of Gasoline and Diesel Vehicles

The UK government plans to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel by 2035, according to a statement from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office.

Downing Street admits that the restrictions could come into effect even earlier if a faster transition to electric vehicles can be achieved. There is also a possibility that this ban may affect the sale of hybrid vehicles.

According to Johnson, the UK intends to achieve net-zero harmful emissions by 2050. “2020 must mark the beginning of a cleaner and greener future for everyone,” the Prime Minister stated.

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps mentioned that the government is implementing a £1.5 billion program aimed at increasing the popularity of electric vehicles. Last year, electric cars were sold every 15 minutes in the country.

The UK government first announced its intention to phase out the sale of gasoline and diesel vehicles back in July 2017, with the ban initially planned to take effect in 2040. At that time, the French government made a similar promise. Meanwhile, Sweden has decided to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030.

According to Greenpeace, Spain, Denmark, Finland, Norway, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Israel have also expressed intentions to phase out diesel-powered vehicles.