BEDEO Calls for Government Support and Regulation to Boost Electric Retrofitting in the UK
In a compelling new whitepaper, global electric mobility leader BEDEO underscores the urgent need for UK government support and regulation of electric vehicle (EV) retrofitting methods. This call to action aligns with the Climate Change Committee’s (CCC) concerns that the UK may miss its future net-zero targets.
The whitepaper, titled “Accelerating the Transition, Supporting our Businesses: Enabling Low-Emission Fleets with Retrofit Electrification,” highlights the crucial role of retrofitting in achieving these targets. Retrofitting, which converts internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric power, is a proven, cost-effective solution that reduces carbon emissions, material waste, and financial outlay compared to purchasing new EVs.
Despite its benefits, the UK government’s fiscal support and regulatory measures for retrofitting remain surprisingly inadequate. The CCC has recently warned of the UK’s “worryingly slow” progress towards net-zero goals, pointing to the urgent need for initiatives like retrofitting to accelerate EV adoption by converting existing cars and vans to electric power.
The average vehicle age in the UK is 8.4 years, meaning that many ICE vehicles registered by the 2035 cut-off for ICE sales will still be emitting greenhouse gases into the 2040s. BEDEO’s whitepaper calls for substantial support and regulation for light commercial vehicles (LCVs), which rely heavily on diesel and cover extensive distances.
BEDEO’s Reborn Electric programs are leading the way in retrofitting, offering hybrid and fully electric conversions for van fleets and iconic cars. The company plans to submit evidence for the government’s consultation on the registration of converted vehicles, advocating for clearer policies and processes.
Retrofitting is already popular and well-subsidized in countries like France. This process not only extends the life and residual value of vehicles but also significantly reduces the total cost of ownership and environmental impact. Despite these advantages, the UK retrofit market lacks sufficient support, presenting a missed opportunity for smart incentives and enhanced regulation.
The whitepaper also highlights the diminishing incentives and government U-turns that have left many drivers uncertain about switching to electric vehicles. BEDEO’s founder and CEO, Osman Boyner, emphasizes the critical role of retrofitting in achieving a circular economy and accelerating electrification.
Boyner points out the need for stringent regulations and safety standards in the retrofit market, comparing the current situation to a “wild west” where unregulated conversions could pose safety risks. He stresses that proper regulation and incentives are essential to harness the full potential of retrofitting in the UK’s electrification roadmap.
The whitepaper concludes with a call to action for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and fleet operators to prioritize investment in retrofit technologies. By embracing these solutions, the UK can mitigate the environmental impact of diesel vehicles, improve air quality, and accelerate progress towards a sustainable future.
To access the full whitepaper and learn more about the imperative for investment in retrofitting solutions, visit bedeo.tech/whitepaper-accelerating-the-transition-supporting-our-businesses.
