The Westminster Energy, Environment & Transport Forum is hosting a conference to explore the next steps for the transition to zero-emission vehicles in the UK and look at current barriers and problems, such as residual values.

The conference, which takes place on 27 April 2026, will bring stakeholders and policymakers together to discuss the direction of current government interventions – including the £2.5bn Drive35 programme for ZEV manufacturing investment and innovation, alongside delivery of the ZEV mandate and phase-out of new pure petrol and diesel car sales by 2030.

The event is set to explore key areas where clarity and policy stability may be needed to support globally competitive UK manufacturing, looking at supply chain scale-up, frameworks for attracting and sustaining private investment, and the role of regional clusters under the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan.

Attendees will consider practical options for strengthening consumer demand, in the context of the Electric Car Grant and wider fiscal measures set out in the 2025 Autumn Budget, incorporating responses to the consultation on introduction of the eVED pay-per-mile tax from April 2028.

Discussion will also explore strategic approaches to building confidence in the transition, as well as charging affordability and reliability, and transparency and consistency in information provided to consumers on purchase prices, charging costs and total cost of ownership.

Speakers will also look at strategies for addressing ongoing barriers to adoption, such as access to reliable local charging, perceived complexity of tariffs and incentives, and uncertainty around residual values and long-term running costs.

Other areas under focus include charging infrastructure, featuring a look at implications for EV charging infrastructure and for the wider energy market and network regulation, and the DfT’s consultation on a new HGV CO2 emissions regulatory framework for the UK.

Confirmed speakers so far include Ruth Cadbury MP, chair of the Transport Committee. All delegates will be able to contribute to the output of the conference, which will be shared with parliamentary, ministerial, departmental and regulatory offices, and more widely. This includes the full proceedings and additional articles submitted by delegates.

Details including speaker submissions and conference booking are online here.