Lee Anderson refuses to ditch diesel car despite pressure to go electric

In the UK, there is a growing trend among car owners towards more eco-friendly vehicles, primarily due to the introduction of various emissions charges across the country. Among those resisting this shift is Reform MP Lee Anderson, who publicly declared on GB News that he plans to keep his diesel car 'for as long as possible.' His comments come at a time when many Britons are facing daily fees for using older, non-compliant vehicles in specific areas, such as London's Ultra Low Emission Zone where a fee of £12.50 applies. Anderson's rationale for holding on to his vehicle stems from his skepticism toward the reliability and practicality of electric vehicles, which he described as 'a white elephant.' He expressed concerns about the decreasing value of second-hand electric cars, citing difficulties with charging infrastructure and overall dependability. While he did not disclose the emissions compliance status of his diesel car, it is noted that almost all diesel cars registered after September 2015 meet the Euro 6 standard, making them compliant with London’s ULEZ regulations. Anderson's stance is indicative of a broader sentiment among some vehicle owners, who are hesitant to abandon traditional diesel and petrol cars amid increasing calls for a transition to electric alternatives. His remarks were made in conjunction with discussions about the shutdown of Vauxhall's van-manufacturing factory in Luton, which could lead to significant job losses, further complicating the narrative around the shift to electric vehicles in the UK automotive sector.