NFDA electric vehicle group debates key EV issues

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) EV group was established in 2019 to support dealers’ efforts in the EV sector and, in turn, provide NFDA with feedback on the key issues facing the industry that the association can use in support of its lobbying efforts with the relevant Government departments.

The launch of the EV Group coincided with the significant growth of the NFDA’s Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) scheme launched by NFDA and endorsed by the Energy Saving Trust (EST) as well as the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) in 2019.

The recent NFDA EV Group meeting discussed key regulatory changes and announcements facing dealers including the consultation on ending the sale of petrol, diesel and hybrid cars, and vans in 2035, CO2 emissions regulations after Brexit and Clean Air Zones.

The investments required by dealers as well as the issues affecting their relationship with manufacturers were also discussed at the meeting.

NFDA provided attendees with an update on the EVA scheme and Dr Thomas Baxter FIChemE gave his views on the future for Battery Electric vehicles and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars, and the potential implications for dealers.

Sue Robinson, NFDA Director, said, “Franchised dealers continue to make significant efforts to support the transition to a zero-emission market and offset the barriers currently perceived by consumers in the EV sector.

“The NFDA EV Group has been instrumental in supporting dealers and providing us with key insights to back our lobbying efforts.

“Going forward, we will continue to work closely with our members to assist them during this crucial market transition by addressing the issues facing them with both Government and manufacturers”.