'Substantial opposition' to petrol and diesel vehicle phase-out in Jersey

Tuesday, 7 April 2026 07:00

The results of a public consultation on the 2030 Petrol and Diesel Vehicle Phase-Out plans found 'strong opposition' amongst islanders and organisations.

Many recognised the need for climate action, but most believe the island is 'not yet ready' for the scale or timing of the phase-out as proposed.

The November consultation generated an 'exceptionally high' level of public engagement - with more than 2,000 survey responses, stakeholder engagement, and contributions from over 1,000 children and young people.

READ: Islanders asked about diesel and petrol car phase-out

Overall, the consultation results reveal 'substantial public and organisational opposition' to what's been proposed for the phase-out.

It found there are concerns about the affordability of electric vehicles for families, young people and small businesses, and worries over insufficient charging infrastructure, as well as confidence in the long-term resilience of the electricity grid.

Operational costs for local businesses, vehicle retailers, and specialist trades were also a concern

Many disagreed with the inclusion of used petrol and diesel vehicles in the phase-out.

There was strong support for targeted exemptions, to include classic and historic vehicles, motorsport and enthusiast vehicles, disability-adapted vehicles, emergency and specialist operational vehicles, and those for which no viable zero-emission alternatives currently exist.

Islanders said they wanted more flexibility, slower implementation, as well as the consideration of sustainable fuels and hybrid technologies.