Breaking News: UK Government Mandates All-Electric Vehicles by 2027 – But Keir Starmer’s Range Rover Is Exempt
The UK government has unveiled a bold new initiative requiring all government-owned vehicles to be fully electric by 2027, as part of its wider effort to slash emissions and reach net-zero carbon targets by 2050. The policy applies across all departments and agencies, including the Home Office, Ministry of Defence, and local authorities.
However, the announcement has drawn criticism following revelations that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official car — a petrol-powered Range Rover — is exempt from the mandate. The exemption, reportedly justified on security and operational grounds, has sparked accusations of hypocrisy from critics who say the government is not leading by example.
According to government sources, the Prime Minister’s vehicle includes specialised armour, communication systems, and other protective technologies that are not yet available in fully electric vehicles. Until suitable electric alternatives are developed and tested, Starmer’s security convoy will continue to rely on internal combustion models.
Environmental groups and political opponents were quick to voice their disapproval. “This sends the wrong message,” said a spokesperson for the Green Party. “If the Prime Minister can’t commit to using an electric vehicle, why should the public?” Others labelled the exemption as “tone-deaf” at a time when citizens are being encouraged — and in some cases, financially pressured — to switch to electric cars.
Meanwhile, officials insist the rest of the government’s fleet transition is on track. The Department for Transport stated that over 25% of government vehicles are already electric, and a further 40% are set to be replaced by mid-2026. Departments are being offered grants and logistical support to meet the deadline.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Prime Minister’s vehicle, environmental experts still view the wider policy as a step forward. “This is one of the more aggressive EV timelines for a government fleet in Europe,” said Dr. Lara James, an energy transition analyst. “While the Range Rover exception is symbolic, the overall strategy will have a measurable impact on emissions.”
As the 2027 deadline looms, attention will remain on whether the government can fulfil its promise — and whether the Prime Minister’s own transport will eventually go green. In the meantime, critics are calling for transparency, consistency, and accountability at the highest levels of leadership.
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All UK government vehicles must be EVs by 2027 – but NOT Keir Starmer’s gas-guzzling Range Rover
