UK to end sale of new diesel and petrol trucks by 2040

The UK Government has announced plans to ban the sale of new diesel and petrol heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) by 2040 as part of its efforts to decarbonise the transport sector.

The proposal is part of a new plan that seeks to reach net-zero emissions for all forms of domestic transport in the UK by 2050.

The plan, subject to consultation, proposes a 2035 phase-out date for smaller trucks and 2040 for vehicles weighing more than 26t.

It aims to create a net-zero rail network by 2050, ensure net-zero domestic aviation emissions by 2040 and encourage a transition to green shipping.

The plan also proposes to electrify the government’s entire fleet of cars and vans by 2027.

It highlights the government’s previous commitments, including promising £2bn in cycling and walking and £2.8bn to support the transition to cleaner vehicles.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “[This plan is] not about stopping people doing things. It’s about doing the same things differently.

“We will still fly on holiday, but in more efficient aircraft, using sustainable fuel. We will still drive, but increasingly in zero-emission cars.

“The transport decarbonisation plan is just the start, as we will need continued efforts and collaboration to deliver its ambitious commitments, which will ultimately create sustainable economic growth through healthier communities as we build back greener.”

According to the Department for Transport (DfT), decarbonising transport will help create cleaner and quieter cities.

It will also help create jobs, with the production of zero-emission vehicles having the potential to support tens of thousands of jobs worth up to £9.7bn gross value added (GVA) in 2050.

Last November, the UK announced it would ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars in the country by 2030.

The decision was the first phase of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s plan to expedite a greener transport future for the country.