Britain's decision to delay a ban on fossil fuel cars may not have a significant impact on the pace of transition to electric vehicles (EVs).
However, the news still angered automakers, who are worried about the delay's effects on supply chains and investment uncertainty.
According to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the five-year delay to 2035 was not political and was instead about "doing what's right for the country".
Following polarised debate over emissions charges on older, less eco-friendly vehicles, Sunak said he was seeking to help those impacted by the cost-of-living crisis and unable to afford expensive EVs.
Industry analysts, however, claim that the delay undermined investment certainty while British companies are trying to attract investors to a relatively small market following Brexit.
Announced in 2020, the 2030 ban was lauded by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson in an effort to establish Britain as a global leader in EVs.
Philip Nothard, UK insight and strategy director at car dealer services company Cox Automotive, said:
"We should have been at 2035 from day one, but it moved because it's become part of a political debate.
"The timing sends the message that things can change again, making it difficult for companies to manage their investment strategies."
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