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UPDATED 1 Sept: The EI library in London is temporarily closed to the public, as a precautionary measure in light of the ongoing COVID-19 situation. The Knowledge Service will still be answering email queries via email , or via live chats during working hours (09:15-17:00 GMT). Our e-library is always open for members here: eLibrary , for full-text access to over 200 e-books and millions of articles. Thank you for your patience.
£500mn to get more drivers into ultra low emission vehicles
The government is to invest £500mn to boost the ultra low emission vehicle (ULEV) industry and help drivers both afford and feel confident using electric cars, according to an announcement by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. The investment, to be made between 2015 and 2020, will create jobs, reduce emissions and set the agenda for the industry, for towns and cities, and for motorists.
The automotive sector is a success story of the UK’s economic recovery, says the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (ODPM), with a new vehicle rolling off a UK production line every 20 seconds and the industry worth £11bn to the economy. The production of ultra low emissions vehicles (ULEV) is a major part of growth both now and for the future.
The investment will, says the ODPM:
· Create ‘Ultra Low City Status’ – local areas coming up with the most ambitious plans can win a share of £35mn to make the leap to becoming ultra low. Winning cities could, for example, incentivise drivers of green cars by letting them use bus lanes or allowing them to park for free.
· Create jobs and innovate – the government will invest £100mn in research and development in ULEV to cement the UK’s position as a leader in the development of these technologies.
· End ‘range anxiety’ – following a £32mn funding boost for charging infrastructure, including plans to install rapid charge points across the ‘M’ and ‘A’ road network.
· Save consumers money – to encourage more people to use ULEVs, car grants of £5,000 off the upfront cost will be extended.
Nick Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister, said: ‘The UK has the potential to emerge as a world leader in the development, design and manufacture of green vehicles. Owning an electric car is no longer a dream or an inconvenience. Manufacturers are turning to this new technology to help motorists make their every day journeys green and clean. This major investment is there to make driving an electric car affordable, convenient, and free from anxiety about the battery running out. But it’s also about creating a culture change in our towns and cities so that driving a greener vehicle is a 'no-brainer' for most drivers.’
The government is also working on other elements of support, including support for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and expects to publish further details on this later in the year. Full details of each scheme detailed above will be published by the autumn, with some of the schemes opening for applications shortly thereafter.
