Renault CEO says UK ZEV mandate needs adaptation

Renault Group chief executive François Provost told UK media at the Paris Motor Show in October 2026 that the government’s Zero‑Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate is out of step with consumer demand and must be adapted, warning that the current 100 % electric target could hurt dealers and the wider market.

Key takeaways

• Renault CEO says UK ZEV mandate is unrealistic for current demand.
• 2026 target requires 33 % of new cars to be pure‑electric, rising to 38 % in 2027.
• Government review of the mandate closes on 23 October 2026.
• SMMT has called the existing targets a “fantasy” and welcomed the review.

Renault Group’s stance on the ZEV mandate

Provost, who became CEO of Renault Group in 2025, said the company is not seeking to slow electric‑vehicle development, noting the large investments already made in the technology. He called for clearer evidence to customers and more certainty from policymakers.

The executive urged regulators to “stop the tsunami of regulation” that he believes does not serve customer interests, arguing that a realistic approach would benefit both manufacturers and dealers.

Current ZEV mandate requirements

The UK rules dictate that by 2030, 80 % of new cars and 70 % of new vans must be pure‑electric, with some hybrid models allowed until 2035. The interim target for 2026 is 33 % of new car sales being electric, increasing sharply each year.

For 2027 the mandate pushes the electric share to 38 %, creating a steep upward trajectory that dealers must accommodate in their future stock plans.

Government review and industry reaction

In August 2026 the government announced a consultation to test whether the ZEV mandate remains fit for purpose. The consultation period ends on 23 October 2026.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) previously described the mandate as a “fantasy” but welcomed the review, calling it “much needed” for the industry.

What this means for dealers

Dealers will need to align their new‑car inventories with accelerating electric‑vehicle quotas, which may require re‑balancing of floor‑stock and increased sourcing of pure‑electric models.

Greater regulatory clarity could reduce uncertainty, helping dealers plan purchases and financing arrangements while meeting the 33 % to 38 % electric sales targets set for the next two years.

Frequently asked questions

How will an adapted ZEV mandate affect dealer stock planning?

Dealers may need to increase the proportion of pure‑electric vehicles in their inventory to meet higher sales targets, potentially reducing space for traditional ICE models and prompting early ordering of electric stock to avoid shortages.

When does the government’s consultation on the ZEV mandate close?

The consultation period, opened in August 2026, ends on 23 October 2026, after which the government will consider responses before deciding on any adjustments to the targets.

What targets are set for pure‑electric car sales in 2026 and 2027?

The ZEV mandate requires 33 % of new car sales to be pure‑electric in 2026, rising to 38 % in 2027, with further increases leading to an 80 % share by 2030.