12 UK cities launch bid for £35m ULEV funding

12 cities across the UK have launched bids for a share of £35 million government funding to increase the uptake of ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs).

The ‘Go Ultra Low Cities Scheme’ was set up by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) with the aim of positioning the UK among the worLds leading markets for plug in vehicles.

The local authorities that demonstrate the potential to deliver a significant increase in the uptake of ULEVs will be awarded a share of the funding, with the winning cities due to be announced before the end of the year.

The shortlisted cities have put forward a variety of initiatives to boost the uptake of ULEVs in their areas. These include: A car scrappage scheme to replace conventionally-fuelled vehicles with ULEVs; Replacing existing council fleets with pure electric and ultra low emission models; Increasing ULEV salary sacrifice schemes to make ULEVs accessible; Electric vehicle carpools for public and private sector workers; and energy-efficient LED street lights that double-up as charge points.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “We are determined to maintain international leadership on the uptake of ultra low emission vehicles. I look forward to seeing the winning ideas for greener, cheaper cars in action. This funding for eco-cities is part of our £500 million funding programme over the next five years to support British industry and achieve our ambition of almost every car, bus and van in the UK being ultra low emission by 2050.”

Poppy Welch, Head of Go Ultra Low said: "We’re excited by the passion and innovation demonstrated by cities across the UK, and we look forward to congratulating the UK's first Go Ultra Low Cities. We will work closely with the winning regions to help increase motorists' awareness of the variety, economy and practicality of ultra low emission vehicles through innovative schemes that incentivise purchase, increase use and enhance infrastructure.”

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