“A Detrimental Effect”: Inside BMW’s Lobbying Push Against UK EV Rules

Documents have revealed the precise language used by BMW to lobby against the UK’s electric vehicle rules, with the company warning of a “detrimental effect” on its thousands of UK jobs. This direct threat formed part of a successful industry-wide push for leniency.
BMW’s submission to the government argued that the ZEV mandate was “much more radical” than policies elsewhere, creating a uniquely challenging environment in the UK. The company explicitly linked this tough regulatory landscape to the security of its workforce at Mini and Rolls-Royce plants.
By framing the issue in terms of jobs and competitiveness, BMW and other carmakers transformed a debate about environmental policy into one about economic survival. This strategic messaging proved highly effective in persuading the government to reconsider its approach.
The outcome, a more flexible and less demanding mandate, shows the power of such targeted arguments. However, it has also drawn criticism from those who believe environmental regulations should not be weakened in response to threats from the industries they are designed to reform.