The UK Department for Transport has announced that 140 plug-in cars and vans will added to the Government’s vehicle fleet as part of a commitment to green transport.
The £5 million investment to reduce emissions will see 15 government departments and agencies – including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Ministry of Defence and the Home Office – use the ultra-low emission vehicles for transporting staff and equipment.
Other services to benefit from the investment will include the police force, NHS and councils. They will not only get plug-in vehicles but also charging points to allow the vehicles to be charged at work.
The Government Car Service, which provides ministers with cars, will also adopt a handful of plug-ins.
The announcement is the first phase of the Government’s green fleet initiative designed to showcase the effectiveness of the low emission vehicles, and encourage fleets to go for greater take-up over the coming years.
“We want to make the UK one of the best places in the world to design, manufacture and sell ultra-low emission vehicles,” said Business Minister Matthew Hancock.
“This important step demonstrates government’s commitment to promoting the economic and environmental benefits of these cars.”
Danny Alexander, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said “I have led the drive for electric cars and vans across government because – with much lower running costs and close to zero emissions – this is the right thing to do for both the environment and the taxpayer.
“This government is also investing significantly in ultra-low emission vehicles, and I recently launched a £10M battery prize for UK scientists to ensure that we are world-leading in this major new technology.”
The investment forms the latest part of a £500m package set aside for ULEV vehicles announced last year.
