Battery electric cars are set to dominate the roads of Great Britain by 2030, according to recent analysis. This shift is particularly notable in London, where the city is expected to become diesel-free. The number of diesel cars on British roads has already decreased by 21% since its peak in June 2024, with sales of electric cars rapidly increasing, though at a slower pace than anticipated. However, the transition to electric vans is slower, and the number of diesel vans has increased to a record 4.4 million. The UK's 'dash for diesel' in the 2000s, fueled by cheaper tax rates, led to diesel engines being more efficient but also producing harmful nitrous oxides. The Volkswagen 'Dieselgate' scandal, which involved cheating on emissions tests, resulted in billions in fines and legal costs, and was linked to thousands of deaths and asthma cases. Despite the decline in diesel car sales, the number of diesel cars on the road will take time to diminish as older vehicles are scrapped. Electric cars currently make up only 4% of the UK's car fleet, compared to 32% for diesel and 58% for petrol. However, the number of diesels is expected to decrease as older cars are phased out, benefiting urban areas where particulate pollution is concentrated. This shift will also impact fuel stations, with many expected to withdraw diesel supplies. London is leading the way, with the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) likely to make it the first UK city with no registered diesel cars or vans. The transition to electric cars is seen as essential for cleaning up Britain's cities, with the UK rapidly adopting electric vehicles. However, there's a twist: analysis reveals that city dwellers are selling their diesel cars to rural residents, indicating a complex interplay between urban and rural markets. Despite the challenges, the world is 'leaving the diesel age', according to environmental policy expert Matt Finch, marking a significant shift towards cleaner transportation.
