Drivers can now get a substantial discount on two new Ford models, as the government unveils the first electric cars eligible for its top-tier purchase grants.
The Ford Puma Gen-E and the e-Tourneo Courier are the first two vehicles approved for the maximum £3,750 discount under the government’s new £650 million Electric Car Grant scheme.
This price reduction is applied automatically at the point of sale. The new Puma Gen-E will be available from £28,495, and the e-Tourneo Courier from £32,190. They earned the full grant for being the "greenest available" within the eligible price range.
The move is a direct response to the high upfront cost of electric vehicles, a major hurdle for many considering a cleaner alternative.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We’re putting money back in people’s pockets and making it easier and cheaper for families to make the switch to electric, by delivering discounts of up to £3,750 on EVs.”
“Our measures are driving competition in the UK EV market, boosting economic growth and supporting jobs and skills as part of our Plan for Change.”
The timing is critical, as electric car sales have been struggling to keep pace with emissions targets, putting the government's 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars in the spotlight.
According to Ian Plummer of Autotrader, the announcement has already caused the "highest uptick in consumer demand" for electric vehicles in three years.
Edmund King, president of the AA, praised the discounts, saying they might "bridge the financial gap" to make electric cars an affordable option for more drivers.
The scheme, however, has not been without criticism, with the Conservatives previously questioning whether taxpayers should be footing the bill.
While the two Fords have secured the full grant, 26 other popular electric models are also included in the scheme, qualifying for a £1,500 grant. All vehicles must have a list price of £37,000 or below to be eligible.
