An extension to the UK’s Plug-in Taxi Grant has been announced, following the initial success of the scheme.
Cab drivers will now be able to apply for funding until 05 April 2025 at a reduced rate of £6,000 per vehicle, helping those looking to make the switch to electric in the next year.
Since its introduction in 2017, the Plug-in Taxi Grant has reportedly provided more than £50m to support the purchase of more than 9,000 zero emission cabs.
As a result, more than 54% (8,299) of London’s licensed taxis are now electric, with the number of electric taxis increasing by 24% in the last year alone as more drivers utilise government funding.
UK technology and decarbonisation minister Anthony Browne said: “Taxis are a vital part of our transport network, so it’s great to be supporting our iconic black cab industry with further funding to help decarbonise their vehicles, part of this government’s plan to back drivers.”
According to the government, the electric taxi market has grown rapidly since the grant’s introduction, with sales reportedly overtaking the number of diesel taxis sold in London in 2022. Nationally, more than one in 10 (12%) taxis are now zero-emission capable.
Achievements and innovations in zero-emission vehicles will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Nominations officially open in March 2024. Please visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector.
