The Electric Vehicle Association Scotland is calling on the hospitality sector to “go electric” and fit multiple charge points at premises as a matter of urgency, enabling them to meet the rising numbers of EVs on Scotland’s roads.
EVA Scotland said that hoteliers, B&B owners, restaurateurs, self-catering and leisure businesses throughout the country should see this as not only a way of helping fight climate change, but as an additional incentive for future guests and a positive boost to business.
Furthermore, with ‘staycation’ holidays growing in popularity EVA Scotland urged the Scottish government, local authorities and industry to capitalise on the surge in EVs.
“With more and more holidaymakers coming to Scotland every year and with increasing numbers driving electric vehicles, this is an ideal opportunity for our highly respected hospitality and catering sector to further increase their services to a rapidly growing number of EV motorists and their families,” said Neil Swanson, EVA Scotland director.
“In the not too distant future, having EV charge points will be more of an attraction to potential guests than a swimming pool or spa treatments. Hotels, restaurants, cafes and leisure facilities providing charging points would be an ideal way for guests to top up their vehicles, stay longer and enjoy the services provided.”
Part of the worldwide Global Vehicle Alliance (GEVA) organisation, EVA Scotland believes that, with grants and loans now available through national and local government to help with installation costs, now is the ideal time for Scotland’s hospitality industry to “take the initiative to attract more EV drivers by providing more charging points at their premises.”
Swanson added: “Some forward-thinking business owners have already realised that by having electric vehicle charge points available for guests has become a significant attraction. The benefits can make a real positive contribution to Scotland’s tourism, leisure industries and overall economy but the EV charge point installation must accelerate.
“There has to be a greater determination to go the extra mile and expand this much further. Seizing this opportunity surely makes good business sense.
“By having a charging infrastructure with attractive pricing will provide not only an additional income stream for those in the hospitality sector but also offer the potential to encourage customers to stay longer.”
