The Future of Motorcycling in the UK: MCIA’s Strategic Manifesto for Net Zero Emissions

As the UK approaches its general election on July 4, 2024, the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) has launched a pivotal document aimed at shaping the future of motorcycling in the UK. The “Powered Light Vehicle Manifesto” outlines a strategic plan designed to leverage the benefits of motorcycles and other powered light vehicles (PLVs) in achieving environmental and economic goals

Key Objectives of the Manifesto

1. Accelerating the Road to Net Zero:
   The manifesto underscores the role of motorcycles in reducing emissions, highlighting that motorcycles contribute only 0.46% to the UK’s domestic transport emissions. It advocates for a technology-neutral approach, supporting various green technologies, including e-fuels and hydrogen power, to achieve net zero emissions.
2. Simplifying Licensing, Training, and Testing:
   The current tiered licensing system, introduced by the EU’s 3rd Driving Licence Directive, is seen as overly complex and a deterrent to new riders. The MCIA calls for a comprehensive review to streamline the process, making it more accessible and encouraging safe riding practices.
3. Reclaiming Britain as the Home of Motorcycle Manufacturing:
   The manifesto aims to position the UK as a global leader in manufacturing low and zero-emission motorcycles. This includes developing a robust supply chain and incentivizing the production of affordable, appealing electric motorcycles.
4. Making PLVs More Attractive:
   To boost the adoption of PLVs, the MCIA proposes enhanced consumer incentives, such as ‘Ride to Work’ schemes and better financial support for electric vehicle infrastructure. The recent reduction in the Plug-In Motorcycle Grant has hindered electric motorcycle sales, a trend the MCIA seeks to reverse.
5. Modernizing PLV Regulations:
   The manifesto calls for an overhaul of regulations to accommodate new types of zero-emission PLVs. This includes addressing the burgeoning market for high-powered e-bicycles and e-scooters, ensuring that legitimate manufacturers can innovate while maintaining safety and compliance.

Engaging Political Support

The MCIA’s initiative goes beyond just a policy document; it includes a pledge for Prospective Parliamentary Candidates (PPCs) to sign, committing to support these measures. This pledge aims to secure broad political backing to drive the motorcycling industry forward under the next government.

The MCIA’s Powered Light Vehicle Manifesto presents a comprehensive plan to enhance the role of motorcycles in the UK’s transportation landscape. By advocating for pragmatic decarbonisation policies, simplified licensing, robust manufacturing support, attractive consumer incentives, and modernized regulations, the MCIA is positioning motorcycling as a key player in the future of sustainable mobility.