Hainan confirms 2030 petrol-car ban, targets 45% EV fleet share

China’s tropical island province of Hainan is solidifying its landmark 2030 ban on the sale of petrol-powered vehicles, making it the first locality in the country to take such a step. The ban, reiterated in a new five-year plan for ecological civilization, covers new private cars as well as government and public service fleets. However, the plan does not clarify whether resale of used petrol vehicles will be restricted. The province aims to accelerate EV infrastructure, targeting a vehicle-to-charger ratio of no more than 2.5:1 by 2030 — at least one charging point for every three electric vehicles. Hainan's EV share is currently 23.7%, with the ban expected to push that to 45% in five years. The move aligns with Beijing’s goal to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The province, already a free-trade zone with a separate customs area launched in December, is seen as a testbed for nationwide electrification policies. Experts suggest other Chinese provinces may follow Hainan’s lead as EV infrastructure matures and costs decline.