- Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has announced a new £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG), offering up to £3,750 for electric vehicles priced under £37,000 to reduce costs for buyers.
- The grant comes into effect on 16 July, but car manufacturers are still awaiting specific details on which models qualify for which grant amounts.
- The grant amounts are based on sustainability criteria with car makers having to commit to a Science-Based Target (SBT) on emissions.
- While the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders welcomed the grant, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association raised concerns about potential negative impacts on the used electric vehicle market and finance costs.
- Alongside the ECG, the government has also announced a £25 million scheme for cross-pavement charging technology, an £8 million fund to electrify ambulance and medical fleets across 200 NHS sites, and improved EV charging signage on major roads.
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