BVRLA calls on new government to confirm future of EV grants

The BVRLA is calling for the next Government to confirm the long-term status of its plug-in vehicle grants.

The association’s Manifesto 2019: Delivering sustainable road transport highlights the vital role BVRLA members can play in moving towards greener, cleaner transportation.

Amongst the policy ideas submitted by the BVRLA is a call for the future of the Plug-In Grant for vans and cars to be confirmed. There are currently no concrete plans to continue this grant beyond next year, feeding anxiety within the market that the fund could be pulled at short notice. Until price parity is achieved with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the grant provides a vital affordability boost for those purchasing an electric car or van.

The BVRLA is urging the next Government to give a long-term Plug-in Grant commitment until 2025, gradually phasing out this support as progress is made towards parity with ICE vehicles.

The BVRLA is also calling on the government to re-introduce the Plug-in Grant for hybrid vehicles as a short-term measure while supply constraints for pure EVs continue, as well as help with the costs of installing EV charging infrastructure.

It also calls on the government to Adjust CO2 related taxes to create a more stable environment to encourage investment in greener company cars and Create a Mobility Innovation Fund to help local authorities to develop new, integrated mobility services.

It also suggest creating a new 'Targeted Clean Freight Scrappage Fund' to help upgrade vans and trucks operating within the Clean Air Zones.