Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Electric Car Grant Confirmed
The government has confirmed it will continue to offer up-to £5000 off the list price of eligible ultra-low emission cars until 2015. The so-called ‘Plug-in Car Grant’, which was designed to stimulate the sales of electric and plug-in hybrid cars, had been due for review this year.
As of end-September last year, only 786 claims had been made through the scheme.
The grant provides a discount of 25% on the purchase price, up to £5,000, of eligible ultra-low emission cars. These include the Nissan Leaf, Peugeot iOn (and derivatives), Smart four-two electric, Chevrolet Volt and forthcoming Vauxhall Ampera.
The government has also announced a new ‘Plug-in Van Grant’ available to both private and business buyers of 20% purchase discount, up to a maximum value of £8,000, for eligible new ultra-low emission vans.
Transport Secretary, Norman Baker, said: “An upfront purchase grant, when combined with the lower running costs and tax benefits, can make switching to an ultra-low emission van an attractive choice for businesses. The Plug-In Van Grant, alongside the existing Plug-In Car Grant, is designed to help private individuals and businesses adopt new, cleaner technology.”
The SMMT said extending funding to the commercial vehicle world is a significant step and will be welcome news to the manufacturers of low carbon vans and those businesses looking to cut operating costs.
Each van qualifying for the Grant must emit less than 75g/km CO2, be capable of at least 60 miles between charges (10 miles in electric mode for hybrid vans), more than 50mph and to ensure safety, be approved by ‘European Vehicle Type Approval’.
DATED: 17.01.12
FEED: ARN
