Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has asked for opinions on where emphasis should be placed and if particular areas, for example taxis and fleet vehicles, should be targeted more directly. Government is inviting industry, local authorities, fleet managers and others with an interest in this sector to respond to encourage more people to choose vehicles with the lowest possible emissions.
The move follows the Government’s announcement of a £500m investment to drive a low carbon revolution.
The investment, which the Government announced in June, will be used to support the growing market between 2015 and 2020 and is one of the most substantial packages of support for ultra low emissions vehicles in the world. It will be used to support electric cars and other vehicles that produce almost no carbon, creating jobs and boosting economic growth, as well as tackling climate change and air quality issues.
Nick Clegg said: ‘The UK’s automotive industry has undergone a renaissance in recent years and we have the potential to emerge as a trailblazer in the development, design and manufacture of green cars.
‘We’re doing well compared to our European competitors, helped by a buoyant UK car market. But, if we’re to stay ahead we need to secure the UK’s position as both a global leader in the production and adoption of low carbon vehicles. We need to see more people who live in Britain driving these cars and enjoying the lower running costs they can bring.
‘The job now is making sure that we get the most out of every penny, so today (7 November 2013) I am launching a call for evidence from key players in the industry to find out how we kick-start demand and make the UK the number one European destination for investment in ultra low emissions vehicles.’
The call for evidence will close on 10th January 2014.
