The UK Prime Minister has announced a delay in the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, shifting the deadline from 2030 to 2035. This decision provides much-needed clarity for motorists, following days of speculation.

The National Motorcyclists Council has expressed support for this potential U-turn on the 2030 deadline. They emphasized the importance of adopting a sensible and pragmatic approach towards motorcycle decarbonization, advocating for collaboration with international partners and the development of diverse alternative technologies and fuels.

According to sources within Downing Street cited by BBC News, Chancellor Rishi Sunak is expected to deliver a speech in the coming days outlining seven key policy changes related to the government’s green agenda. Sunak contends that the UK has been at the forefront of carbon reduction efforts, surpassing some global counterparts, which allows for adjustments to various aspects of the green strategy, including the postponement of the 2035 ban on combustion-engine vehicles.

This development comes shortly after the Petrol Retailers Association expressed skepticism about decarbonization plans, urging the government to clarify its roadmap, especially in light of inadequate infrastructure.

While many motorcyclists welcome the extended deadline, some Members of Parliament are concerned that delaying the transition to electric vehicles could lead to the UK falling behind globally, potentially hampering job growth and investment. Green Party MP Caroline Lucas criticized the rollback as “economically illiterate, historically inaccurate and environmentally bone-headed.” However, it’s worth considering if experiencing a grid of two-stroke RD350s at full throttle might alter her perspective.

Notably, an unnamed senior Conservative MP expressed relief at what they view as a dose of “realism” from the Prime Minister regarding the net-zero target.

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