A grand total of 19 electric vehicles have now been added to the list of cars eligible to receive the government's grant to bring down the price, helping people across the UK make the switch to electric from petrol and diesel. With nearly 50 new electric cars expected to hit the criteria to join this list, it's now easier than ever to go electric.
Simon Williams, the head of policy at the RAC, had this to say about the new range of vehicles to be added to the list: "Another wave of cars qualifying for the government’s revamped Electric Car Grant is yet more welcome news. It’s also very positive to see other manufacturers that don’t meet the grant’s green production targets lowering their prices."
There are two levels of the grant available: the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly cars will be able to qualify for the full £3750 discount, while cars that do not meet the high criteria of eco-efficiency will qualify for the £1500 discount.
This grant is available to electric cars that have an RRP of £37,000 or less. If the electric car that you're looking at is over this amount but has the same size battery as an electric car less than £37,000, you will still qualify for the grant.
Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, said, "With discounts on 17 car models announced this week alone, we’re delivering on our promise to make it easier and cheaper for families to go electric…This is about backing drivers, putting money back into people’s pockets and creating the jobs and growth that will drive Britain forward, delivering on our Plan for Change."
A few of the cars available for the grant include the Renault Alpine, Nissan Micra, Vauxhall Corsa Electric and the Citroën ë-C5.
The government has also promised an extra £63 million in support for electric vehicles, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of whether or not you have a driveway. Charging units will be available via charge points that are accessible via a pavement. Cables will run safely underneath the pavement from your home, allowing you to park outside your home and charge your car on the street.
Drivers will be able to save upwards of £1500 a year when making the change to an electric vehicle compared to running a petrol or diesel vehicle.
