If the government wants to promote low carbon emissions, it's obvious that it has to address commercial vehicles too.

It has been announced that the Plug-In Car Grant - introduced to promote the use of electric cars in the UK - will be extended to vans, reducing their cost by 20% up to the value of £8,000.

This measure will encourage businesses to become "greener." Van manufacturers will surely welcome the grant too.

A van must emit less than 75g/km CO2, be capable of at least 60 miles between charges (10 miles in electric mode for hybrid vans) and be approved by the European Vehicle Type Approval, in order to qualify for the grant. Vehicles must be able to reach at least 50mph and have a minimum 5-year warranty on the battery

"Minister of State for Business and Innovation Mark Prisk and I have reviewed the existing Plug-In Car Grant, which provides a discount of 25%, up to £5,000 off the price of eligible ultra-low emission cars," said Transport minister Norman Baker.

"In addition, we are persuaded that there is a strong case for supporting ultra-low emission technology in vans.

"The Plug-In Van Grant will help to improve local air quality in our cities, reduce carbon emissions and meet Government targets. The technology fits well with a large portion of the van market that relies on short urban trips to and from base," he added.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has promptly welcomed the initiative. "The Plug-In Car Grant and the new Plug-In Van Grant send a strong signal to the global automotive industry about the UK's determination to be a leading market for ultra-low carbon vehicles," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.

The government explains that final users don't have to fill in any application form. The paperwork will be made by the dealer or vendor, and the amount of grant will be automatically deducted from the price of the vehicle.

Be the first to comment on this.