UK reveals £43m for E-car development
Funding to boost UK’s position as world leader in low emission vehicle technology emissions is granted
Transport Minister Baroness Kramer revealed a £32m funding along with a further £11m to invest in 15 ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) projects across 50 organisations.
An initiative to support infrastructure for UK’s growing electric vehicles has encouraged installing various electric car charge points at hospitals, train stations, and along A-roads.
The projects include the development of an electric bus with a hydrogen fuel cell to extend its range. The liquid nitrogen-powered engine plans for low emissions and is significantly economical in comparison to the hydrogen buses that we currently use.
The £32m infrastructure commitment encompasses £15m towards a scheme offering a £700 grant to households installing home chargers, and £8m to support public charging infrastructure across the UK.
The finance supplies a sum of £15m to the Highways Agency, which was announced in autumn 2014 to deliver charge points on major roads and across towns and cities. The scheme is expected to begin in May.
Kramer said the funding would boost the UK's position as a world leader in low emission vehicle technology innovation.
She added: "The funding announced today marks another milestone in the government's support for ultra low emission vehicles as their popularity takes off. Our support to the ULEV industry will help ensure the innovation that is a hallmark of the British automotive industry will continue to drive development in this vital growth sector".
Under the governments grant scheme registrations of plug-in vehicles increased fourfold last year. Growth is expected from the rapid expansion of 40 new ULEV models coming onto the market in the next three years.
The significant rise in electrical vehicles has prompted the government to reconsider the plug-in grant scheme. Some experts believe this may be an introduction to the next parliament.
The UK government have partnered with major manufacturers for a campaign that promotes the benefits of electric cars and technology unveiling a £10m prize for new batteries.
In June, London is set to host the season finale of the Formula ePrix.
