Government considers measures to boost EV uptake

The Government has announced today (September 9) it is considering a series of measures to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) uptake.

These include charge points installed at popular destinations such as supermarkets and tourist sites, consistent and clear public signage for drivers on UK roads, and guidance to local authorities on painting EV parking spaces green.

The recommendations were made in a report by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles, which the Government commissioned.

The proposals come alongside £12 million funding for EV research projects and a £9.3m ‘try before you buy’ scheme, also announced today, coinciding with World EV Day.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Whether you’re taking a trip with the family or commuting to work, with the wide range of models at competitive prices, it is now more cost-effective and convenient than ever to drive and charge an electric vehicle.

“This, together with our continued support for R&D, will see talented UK-based SMEs flourish, as well as more than 6,000 skilled jobs created up and down the country.

“This is why, on the world’s first-ever day dedicated to celebrating electric vehicles, I’m delighted to announce our unwavering support for a cleaner, greener transport future."

There have been mixed reactions to the green parking spaces proposal, however.

Vix Leyton, consumer expert at Carwow, commented: “Special parking spaces could work as a nice fringe benefit of being a greener driver, but gimmicks like painting spaces green, or the recently released 'green plates' won't do enough of the heavy lifting to persuade British drivers to move to an electric car.

"For many, particularly in the current climate, it remains financially out of reach to commit to the switch to electric vehicles. Introducing financial incentives and tackling range anxiety through investment in the charging infrastructure will have a much more powerful effect on shifting the dial to make electric driving the norm. So, while all steps like this are positive, more has to be done.”

However, Lauren Pamma, electrification propositions lead in Lloyds Banking Group’s Motor Finance and Leasing Division, said: “It’s an exciting time for the electric vehicle market with almost 40,000 battery electric vehicles already registered this year, clearly showing that sustainability remains high on the agenda despite the challenges of coronavirus.

"It’s positive to hear that the Government continues to look at ways to help drive EV adoption – dedicated green parking spaces being the latest consideration.

“The deadline to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 looms ever closer, so anything that simply and clearly communicates the benefits of electric vehicle adoption – from better parking spaces to the introduction of the emissions-restricted zones - is a welcome shot in the arm.”