Social housing providers to offer alternatives to car ownership

Several social housing providers and community organisations in Scotland will receive funding from the Plugged-In Households Grant Fund, to procure the services of electric vehicle car clubs.

The organisations will share over £359 from the scheme, which is delivered by Energy Saving Trust on behalf of Transport Scotland.

Membership of the car clubs are discounted for housing association tenants, but also allow local residents and staff to access electric vehicles on demand through the initiatives. The scheme offers real alternatives to car ownership and affordable access to modern ultra-low emission vehicles for those who take part in the shared transport scheme.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “I’m pleased the Scottish Government has been able to support this second round of funding to expand affordable access to electric vehicles. I’m determined that the benefits of greener e-mobility extend beyond those who can afford the cost of a new vehicle, while at the same time promoting more sustainable shared vehicle schemes.

“In responding to the climate emergency, ultra-low emission vehicles bring real advantages – however, I have stated before that the solution to our transport challenges cannot be zero emission vehicles alone. We need to challenge our relationship with car ownership and encourage shared modes while at the same time promote walking, cycling and public transport.

“In addition to our funding to social housing providers for improved walking and cycling facilities, the Plugged-In Households Grant Fund is a progressive initiative which provides real alternatives to car ownership for those who choose to drive. I’m confident that communities across Scotland will enjoy the services offered by these car clubs on behalf of successful applicants.

Ellie Grebenik, Senior Programme Manager at Energy Saving Trust, said: “Plugged-in Households grant funding is opening up access to shared-use electric vehicles across Scotland, ensuring as many people as possible can enjoy sustainable transport through the convenience of car clubs.

“The adoption of EVs is accelerating all the time, supported by more charging infrastructure and interest free loans available through Energy Saving Trust. The switch to EVs plays an important part in reducing emissions and improving the country’s air quality in line with Transport Scotland’s strategy.

“It’s encouraging to see four housing associations and three community organisations securing 28 electric vehicles through the second round of Plugged-in Households fund, which complements the 35 vehicles already made available through round one.”

Successful applicants:

Blackwood Group - £88,800 - 8 vehicles - Enterprise

Cube Housing - £128,628 - 10 vehicles - Co-Wheels

Grampian Housing - £11,559.60 - 1 vehicle - Co-Wheels

Connect Community Trust - £78,946 - 6 vehicles - Co-Wheels

WestWheels Car Club - £26,784.36 - 1 vehicle - WestWheels Car Club

Huntly & District Development Trust - £11,995.20 - 1 vehicle - Co-Wheels

Osprey Housing Association - £12,399.60 - 1 vehicle - Co-Wheels