DUNTON, UK – Lisa Brankin, Chair & MD Ford UK, has stressed the urgent need for UK Government support to boost electric vehicle demand and remove pressure from automakers to shoulder the economic burden of achieving challenging net zero goals in the UK.
Lisa was speaking at the SMMT Electrified conference in London yesterday that brings together hundreds of auto industry leaders, media, government, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues in the transition to electric mobility.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations in the UK.
Lisa’s comments came during this yesterday’s press conference, where alongside Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO, she answered questions from more than 40 leading international media. Later in the morning, Lisa took part in a panel discussion in front of hundreds of delegates from the industry: “Renewed Optimism or cause for concern? The state of the ZEV car and van market transition.” Co-panellists included Fredrik Allard, Head of E-Mobility at Scania, the CEO of BMW UK and the President of Kia UK.
Lisa stressed that Ford has invested billions of dollars in research and development for electrification, and that this investment and commitment needs to be matched by the UK Government. She also highlighted the requirement for support for commercial vehicle drivers in the charging space.
Additionally, she spoke about the optimism that still remains for the EV market, and Ford’s determination to make the transition a success - achievable only with the Government's help.