The Motorcycle Industry Association has welcomed the news that the government plans to ban new fossil fuel-powered vehicles from 2040, saying it will be a “tremendous stimulus” for bike makers.
It’s reported that the government is due to announce a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2040 as part of an effort to tackle air pollution, according to several national newspapers.
The measure is expected to include a ban on new hybrid vehicles and could mark the beginning of the end of the prevalence of the internal combustion engine in automotive transport. A similar commitment has already been made by France.
Steve Kenward, CEO of the Motor Cycle Industry Association, pointed out that no specific mention had been made of bikes but added: “I think there’s a great opportunity.
“For all the congestion-busting abilities of motorcycles and the abilities to make electric bikes I think it’s a tremendous stimulus for the motorcycle industry. It’s a tremendous commercial trigger to push on with electric motorcycles.”
Motorcycles made before 2007 are already set to be hit by a £12.50 daily pollution toll for entering London from 2020.