The UK Government has unveiled a set of measures aimed at securing the future of the domestic car industry, which has been under increasing pressure due to global factors, including US tariffs and the ongoing shift to electric vehicles (EVs).

The automotive sector has faced significant difficulties recently, including a 25% tariff on exports to the US, which has raised concerns over potential job losses and economic impact. The Government’s new initiatives are designed to mitigate these challenges and support the transition to electric mobility, a critical component of the industry’s long-term strategy.

One of the key changes is a revision to the zero-emission vehicle mandate, which will provide greater flexibility to manufacturers in meeting the 2030 target for phasing out petrol and diesel cars. This includes extending allowances for hybrid vehicles and offering exemptions for smaller manufacturers, such as McLaren and Aston Martin. In addition, the financial penalties for manufacturers failing to meet EV targets have been reduced from £15,000 to £12,000 per non-compliant vehicle.

Nissan, which has significant operations in the UK, will benefit from these adjustments. The company, which focuses on exporting vehicles primarily to Europe, is on track to expand production at its Sunderland plant. The launch of new electric models, including the next-generation Leaf, Juke, and Micra, is expected to strengthen its market position, with 2024 projections showing a rise in production and revenues.

While the measures are a step in the right direction, some industry leaders have voiced concerns that they do not go far enough to address the broader challenges manufacturers face. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has welcomed the flexibility provided to car makers, but cautioned that a more comprehensive approach is needed to stimulate demand for EVs, beyond the current focus on quotas and penalties.

The Government’s efforts aim to balance the need for environmental progress with the economic realities of a rapidly changing global market, offering a mix of regulatory adjustments and targeted support to help the UK automotive sector remain competitive on the world stage. However, as manufacturers continue to face mounting pressure, many are calling for further action, particularly on the demand-side incentives necessary to accelerate EV adoption among consumers.

Softcat, a provider of IT infrastructure products and services, has acquired Oakland, a specialist provider of data and AI consultancy services.

Oakland’s specialist consultancy services range from data strategy and governance, through to architecture and engineering, analytics and AI.

An existing partner to Softcat, Oakland is headquartered in Leeds, employs 70 people, and in the twelve months to 31 December 2024 generated revenue of £10m. As part of the transaction, Oakland’s leadership team will join Softcat to run the business initially as a standalone operating unit.

A payment of £8m has been funded by Softcat’s existing cash, with further contingent payments over the next three years depending on performance.

Graham Charlton, Softcat CEO, said: “Data is one of the biggest opportunities ahead of us as innovation in technology continues to shift rapidly towards a more automated and AI-driven world.

“Our customers need expert support to navigate this transition, so by combining Softcat’s market presence and broad portfolio with Oakland’s specialist capabilities, we can guide customers through every stage of this journey.

“The acquisition of Oakland delivers an immediate, strategically important addition to our portfolio of services, and most importantly brings into the Softcat family a fantastic group of people who we know well and who align closely to our culture and values.”

Richard Corderoy, Oakland CEO, added: “We are excited to join forces with Softcat. By combining our deep expertise in data and AI consulting with Softcat’s extensive portfolio and market presence, we can deliver unparalleled value and innovation to our clients.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we’re looking forward to achieving great things together.”

UK construction firms have been shedding jobs at the fastest rate in four years, driven by an ongoing decline in sector activity. March saw another contraction, marking the third consecutive month of shrinking output, though slower than in February.

The latest data from S&P Global’s construction purchasing managers’ index (PMI) revealed a reading of 46.4, slightly better than the previous month’s 44.6 but still below the 50 mark that signals growth. This indicates that the UK construction industry continues to face tough conditions, particularly within commercial construction, which saw its sharpest decline since early 2021.

Concerns over the broader economic landscape, including rising interest rates and global uncertainties, have contributed to the sector’s woes. A weak order book and subdued demand for construction projects have led to further job losses, with firms cutting staff at the highest rate since October 2020.

In particular, civil engineering experienced the largest drop in activity since 2020, while commercial construction remained relatively stronger but still contracted. Firms cited a slowdown in investment due to uncertain economic conditions and geopolitical risks. These factors, combined with an ongoing reduction in infrastructure work, paint a bleak picture for the future of the UK construction sector.