Government announces new funding for car charging infrastructure
The government has revealed it will be investing £37 million into engineering projects designed to advance the infrastructure available for charging electric vehicles and ensure the network is fit for the 21st century.
It said it hopes to revolutionise the experience for the drivers who have already adopted hybrid or all-electric vehicles, as well as encouraging more to consider going green the next time they are on the lookout for new car deals.
Among the projects to receive funding is Urban Foresight, which is developing 'pop-up' charging hubs that can be built into footpaths in order to cater for drivers that do not have access to off-street parking.
Another project will see charge points installed in car parks so large numbers of vehicles can be charged overnight, while further research is to look into whether electric cars could in future be charged without the need for a cable.
There are also plans to use existing Virgin Media infrastructure to deliver widespread charging over the internet, therefore increasing the efficiency of each charge.
The news comes a year after the government launched its Road to Zero strategy, which has already sparked a 60 per cent increase in battery electric vehicle registrations this year compared to the same period last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Future of mobility minister Michael Ellis said: "We're charging up the transport revolution and investing in technologies to transform the experience for electric vehicle drivers," adding that motorists need charging infrastructure to be "reliable and innovative".
The government's announcement has been widely welcomed by motoring organisations, with the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association saying it acknowledges the role everyone plays in delivering cleaner road transport.