UK policy and the low carbon vehicle sector

This article analyses and critiques attempts by UK policymakers, driven by environmental and economic concerns, to promote the low carbon vehicle sector. In particular the efforts of government departments such as Business, Innovation and Skills; Transport; Energy and Climate Change; and the Office of Low Emission Vehicles are considered. Key schemes to promote the design, development and purchase of low carbon vehicles and alternatively fuelled vehicles amongst consumers are analysed, most notably from the perspective of sales. The impact of the sector on automotive producers operating in the UK is also assessed. The analysis finds that despite considerable policy attention, consumer demand for low carbon vehicles remains sluggish at best and that policy focus needs to be reconsidered with greater emphasis placed on demand stimulus measures.