The UK government will invest further in EVs and the associated charging infrastructure, according to its net zero strategy released today [19 October].
Building on the Prime Minister’s 10-point-plan, the UK net zero strategy sets out an economy-wide plan for how British businesses and consumers will be supported in making the transition to clean energy and green technology.
Under the plans the government will invest £620m in grants for EVs and on-street residential charging points. There are also plans for a zero-emission vehicle mandate with manufacturers required to sell a proportion of clean vehicles each year.
Tanya Sinclair, director of policy UK, Ireland and Nordics, ChargePoint, welcomed the government’s announcement: “We have seen the positive impacts on EV uptake of these schemes in North America, where they have significantly built-up availability and consumer confidence of electric vehicles.
“Across our fast-growing charging sector, a UK ZEV mandate will create huge confidence for those operating and investing in the charging industry. This industry, consisting mainly of start-ups and scale-ups, will for the first time be able to clearly anticipate demand for charging infrastructure and create a clear roadmap to meet these targets.
“With this new policy, the UK is taking an essential step on the road to 2030 as well as contributing to the creation of a better EV driver experience in the UK.”
An additional £350m is promised to help the automotive supply chain switch to EVs.
Transport secretary, Grant Shapps, said: “We published our transport decarbonisation plan in July which was just the start – as we look ahead to the COP26 climate change conference and beyond, we need to continue our efforts to deliver its ambitious commitments. This will provide certainty to drivers and industry as we create sustainable economic growth, boost job opportunities and clean up the air in our towns and cities.”
