Shapps encourages UK to switch to electric vehicles

The Transport Secretary has set out a new government-backed app through which drivers can explore making the switch to an electric vehicle.

As the UK prepares to host the COP26 climate summit this November, government is working with industry to provide the tools and practical advice drivers need to go electric.

The free EV8 Switch App, backed by £2.7 million of UK Space Agency funding, calculates how much money UK drivers could save by switching to an EV compared to their current petrol or diesel vehicle, along with details on the carbon dioxide (CO2) savings and air quality improvements they could achieve.

Drivers can also see which electric vehicles would be the most suitable for them based on their current vehicle and how switching to electric could fit in with their current lifestyle. Those with the app can also see how close their nearest chargepoints are, and which journeys can be completed without the need to top-up en-route.

To also make World EV Day the government has announced an extension to the £50 million government fund to install electric vehicle chargepoints.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “This World EV Day, I want to not only provide easy access to the tools that people need to feel confident about making the switch, but also to make sure that chargepoints are accessible, affordable and recognisable. That’s why we have already committed £1.3 billion to accelerate the rollout of charging infrastructure up and down the country. And as we look forward to COP26 and beyond, our vision is that the UK is at the forefront of the zero emission transport future, creating thousands of green jobs in the process.”

The Department for Transport has also produced a Beginners’ Guide to Going Electric to help drivers understand what’s involved in switching to an electric car. The guide provides practical advice and top tips as we accelerate towards a zero emission transport future.

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