On Thursday 22 May, NFDA attended the SMMT Automotive Economic Symposium 2025. The event saw presentations given by a number of experts on topics ranging from the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and market forecasts for the coming year to the effect of Trump’s tariffs on the industry. The conference began with an overview of the market outlook given by SMMT Chief Economist, Matthew Croucher, followed by a detailed forecast from the S&P’s Ashand Namasivayam. Aaron McMahon and Eoin Devane from The Climate Change Committee gave some detailed analysis on the UK’s progress to electrification, while Ian Henry of AutoAnalysis explored the outlook of UK light vehicle production and the impact that US tariffs will have on British manufacturing. Following a short break, discussions turned to factors impacting EV adoption, global market trends and the impact of new brand entrants. Andy Poole of the SMMT discussed how regulation is encouraging the transition to EVs. Nia Liscombe-Lear of JATO Dynamics examined trends in the global market and the effect that has had on price. Victor Zhang from Jaecoo/Omoda explained the challenges and experiences that they have had entering the UK market. The final session featured Peter Holmes, trade economist at the University of Sussex, who analysed the implications of U.S. tariffs for UK and EU-China relations. Adam Webb of Benchmark Minerals offered a fascinating look at EV battery production and dominance in the minerals supply chain. Katherine Uzzell from the National Energy Systems Operator then outlined the impact of EVs on the UK’s energy grid and what will be required to meet net zero targets. The day concluded with a wrap-up from Matthew Croucher.