Green number plates are set to be rolled out from autumn, UK transport secretary Grant Shapps confirmed today, under plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
The plates are designed to make it easier for cars to be identified as zero-emission vehicles.
According to the Department for Transport, the move will help local authorities develop and put in place new policies to incentivise people to own and drive them.
What’s more, drivers could benefit from local initiatives such as cheaper parking and cost-free entry into zero-emission zones where those with a green number plate will be recognised as eligible.
The plates will be identifiable by a green flash on the left-hand side and will be available for zero-emission vehicles only.
“A green recovery is key to helping us achieve our net zero carbon commitments while also promoting economic growth,” said Shapps.
“Green number plates could unlock a number of incentives for drivers and increase awareness of cleaner vehicles on our roads, showing people that a greener transport future is within our grasp.”
The announcement follows the conclusion of a consultation, inviting comments from the public, local authorities and industry stakeholders from a range of sectors, including motoring and consumer groups and vehicle manufacturers, on how best to introduce green number plates.
To further accelerate the government’s plans, £12m funding for research into the zero-emission market has also been announced to develop greener vehicles and help improve vehicle charging technology.
The funding, made available through the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) and delivered through Innovate UK, will see £10m for a new Zero Emission Vehicle Innovation Competition.
This will invite applicants to bid for project funding to support advancements in both battery-electric and hydrogen vehicles, as well as charging infrastructure.
OLEV is also providing £2m to UK SMEs to support their research into zero-emission vehicles in areas such as battery technology, which, according to the government, could be used by major vehicle manufacturers in future EV production.
Read more from CiTTi
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/ccs-launches-ev-charging-infrastructure-agreement/
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/bevs-to-cut-uk-carbon-emissions-by-12-study-shows/
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/almost-100000-pure-evs-to-hit-uk-roads-in-2020-claims-driveelectric/
