Boost For Green Cars
Last week the government announced a package of cash incentives to promote low-carbon road transport and make green vehicles more affordable.
Up to £5,000 of assistance will be available for motorists who buy electric or hybrid vehicles. This is part of a £250m plan to promote low carbon transport, including investment in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles such as local charging points. The announcement reflects the improvements we have seen in electric and hybrid car technology, with a new generation of vehicles coming onto the market soon with lower charging times and able to travel longer distances than their predecessors. The government has already committed over £150m to support the research and development of low-carbon vehicles.
Around 35% of our carbon emissions come from domestic transport, and over half of this amount is caused by motor cars. Reducing the environmental impact of roads is therefore crucial in tackling climate change and for the UK to meet its target of reducing emissions by 26% by 2020 and 80% by 2050. Chuka welcomed the announcement:
“It is important to back up our bold commitments on climate change with action. Offering motorists financial assistance will give low-carbon transport a kick start and help us create a more sustainable society.”
