A political storm is brewing in Westminster after a major car manufacturer confirmed it will reintroduce diesel models to the UK market, arguing the move reflects the “real-world” needs of everyday drivers.

The company insists that demand from motorists — particularly those who rely on long-distance travel, towing capacity and lower running costs — can no longer be ignored. Industry sources say the decision is driven by falling consumer confidence in charging infrastructure and the rising cost of electric vehicles.

However, critics across Parliament have reacted sharply, warning that the move risks undermining the government’s net zero ambitions, strongly championed by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. They argue that bringing diesel back into showrooms sends the wrong signal at a critical moment for the green transition.

The controversy has reignited a wider national debate: is economic reality now colliding with political promises on climate policy — and is the pace of change moving faster than drivers are willing to follow?