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Jennifer Meierhans, a business reporter, shared insights from Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander regarding the government’s plans to reduce the cost of purchasing an electric car. Despite not confirming specific grants to encourage motorists to make the switch, Alexander highlighted a £25 million allocation for councils to improve charging infrastructure accessibility for those without driveways, along with an additional £63 million for charging infrastructure development. While the Conservatives welcomed the investment, they criticized the perceived pressure being put on families to purchase expensive electric vehicles.
The UK currently sees electric vehicles priced nearly double that of typical petrol cars, averaging at £22,000, although some Chinese brands are starting to offer electric cars for as low as £18,000. Alexander promised forthcoming announcements aimed at making electric vehicles more affordable for consumers, indicating a shift towards potentially taxpayer-funded subsidies similar to those in the US. Despite declining to provide more details, she assured viewers of cost reductions for those considering the switch.
Sales of electric vehicles comprised around a fifth of new car purchases in the first half of the year, falling short of mandated targets set by manufacturers ahead of the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars. Acknowledging the high cost of electric vehicles as a concern, Alexander emphasized the government’s comprehensive approach towards addressing charging and upfront purchase costs. However, shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, Richard Fuller MP, criticized the push towards more expensive electric vehicles before the market is fully prepared.
To address consumer concerns like “range anxiety” and expand the charging infrastructure, the government plans to invest £63 million, particularly in indicating larger EV charging hubs along major roads. Despite these efforts, transportation secretary Alexander disclosed she did not own an electric car due to her living situation, echoing the challenges faced by many without off-street parking options. Recognizing the need for improved charging accessibility for those in residential areas like flats or terraced houses, Alexander’s strategies aim to boost confidence in transitioning to electric vehicles
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