Call To Boost Electric Car Industry

Posted on 26. January, 2010.

The Scottish Government has been urged to take action to maintain the country's lead in the electric car industry. 

 

An alliance of business and environmental groups called upon the Government to "do all that it could" to deliver the take-up of electric vehicles in Scotland. 

They want the Government to ensure the infrastructure is in place for the cars to be widely used, and for people to be encouraged to switch from oil-fuelled vehicles. 

 
Electric vehicles can be four times more efficient than internal combustion engines, and it is hoped that expanding the industry in Scotland would not only cut carbon emissions but also boost the jobs market.

 

Glasgow-based electric vehicle manufacturer, Allied Vehicles, Dundee-based lithium-ion battery manufacturers Axeon and WWF Scotland jointly praised the ambition shown by Scottish ministers but said there was "no room for delay" in pushing forward the industry.

 

The Scottish Government is expected to publish the results of its Low Carbon Vehicle consultation during Spring 2010.

 

Dr Sam Gardner, of the WWF, said the Government needed "a rapid stepping up" to encourage the widespread use of electric cars.

 

"2010 is the year we must get things moving on electric vehicles in Scotland," he said.

 

"We urge ministers to do everything in their power to enable the rapid roll-out of electric vehicles throughout Scotland.

 

"Alongside measures to get people out of their cars, a switch to electric vehicles is going to be an essential part of tackling climate change. Scotland needs to embrace electric vehicles and start planning the infrastructure to make it happen."