Hospitals, stations and streets across the UK will see a wave of new chargepoints for electric cars, thanks to a new round of government funding.
In February government committed an extra £37m to offset the cost of installing infrastructure for recharging electric vehicles. Now, Business Minister, Michael Fallon MP, and Transport Minister, Norman Baker MP, have announced the winning bids for the first round of this funding.
Train operators, local authorities and the wider public sector will be able to make bids for the second round of funding, the closing date for which is the 30 October 2013.
This announcement comes hot on the heels of an extra £500m being committed to drive forward the market for ultra-low emission vehicles, as part of the government’s plans for roads reform published in July.
Transport Minister, Norman Baker MP, said, “With hundreds of new chargepoints adding to the ever-expanding network of infrastructure, people will be able to recharge their cars at stations, in hospital car parks and on streets all over the country.
“This is brilliant news for those already using these vehicles and will give greater confidence to those who are considering making the switch to electric. With new models coming to market every month from major motor vehicle manufacturers and running costs of 2p to 3p a mile, these vehicles are an increasingly attractive option for many consumers and businesses.”
Business Minister, Michael Fallon MP, said, “The automotive industry in the UK is a real success story. Four out of every five vehicles made here are exported and the sector supports many thousands of high-quality jobs across the country.
“We need to keep working with industry to maintain this momentum and secure its long-term success which is why we are supporting the transition to ultra-low emission vehicles. As we set out in our automotive industrial strategy, there are huge opportunities for us from being a world-leader in these technologies.”
The coalition government will provide 75% of the cost of installing new chargepoints. The £37 million funding comes from government’s existing £400 million commitment to increase the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles and is available until April 2015.
