Tesla lobbied the UK government to strengthen carbon emissions regulations for cars and lorries, urging the introduction of stricter zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates. In a letter to Labour’s roads minister Lilian Greenwood, Tesla called for a tougher ZEV mandate for cars and equivalent rules for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).
Tesla’s stance contrasts with that of rival manufacturers like Ford and Land Rover, who have pushed for more relaxed regulations, arguing there’s insufficient demand for electric cars. Tesla, however, believes that stricter rules will speed up electric vehicle adoption, helping to grow the used electric car market.
Tesla also highlighted the need for a ZEV mandate for HGVs to stimulate the electric heavy vehicle market, which would benefit the company’s upcoming Tesla Semi truck. Tesla has urged the UK government to act urgently, stating that the UK is falling behind the EU, which has more ambitious emissions reduction goals for lorries.
Additionally, Tesla has advocated for higher taxes on fossil fuel cars, supporting Musk’s view that carbon emissions should be taxed due to their environmental impact. Tesla’s push for stricter emissions regulations and subsidies for electric vehicles aligns with its broader strategy to expand its market and increase revenue from vehicle credits.
Despite Musk’s ties to Donald Trump and the political right, Tesla continues to profit significantly from selling credits to rivals, making over $2 billion in 2024.
