LONDON, Dec 24 Reuters Britain began a consultation on Tuesday to review rules that force automakers to produce more electric vehicles, following industry warnings that the current plan could lead to factory closures and job losses.

The consultation will take views from the industry on changing the socalled Zero Emission Vehicle ZEV mandate, which requires automakers to sell a higher proportion of EVs each year, or pay fines.

Carmakers say lowerthanexpected EV demand has forced them to spend billions of pounds on discounts to entice customers and meet the sales targets, which have hurt Britain39;s appeal as a manufacturing hub.

Last month Vauxhall owner Stellantis said it would shut a van factory in southern England, risking more than 1,000 jobs, partly reflecting the impact of the ZEV mandates.

Britain39;s Labour government said it would consult to update the targets without compromising the overall direction of the regulations, which form part of Britain39;s wider climate goals.

The consultation will seek views on the restoration of a 2030 deadline to phase out new petrol and diesel car sales and whether vehicles such as hybrid cars can be sold alongside ZEVs.

It will also consider measures to boost consumer demand for electric vehicles.

We are steadfast in our mission to help our worldleading automotive industry thrive, and this consultation will look at how we can support manufacturers, investors, and the wider industry to reach their targets, Business…