Kimmins welcomes grant scheme to purchase zero emission vehicles in Northern Ireland

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has welcomed a major new grant scheme to encourage more people to purchase a zero emissions vehicle.

The £650million Electric Car Grant scheme, which will be open to applicants here, was announced by the UK Government's Department for Transport.

The scheme provides consumers, including private individuals and commercial fleets with a grant toward the purchase cost of zero emission cars (electric and hydrogen fuel cell powered) that meet minimum criteria and have an RRP below £37,000. There will be two levels of grant: £3,750 for the most environmentally sustainable vehicles and £1,500 for less environmentally sustainable vehicles.

Manufacturers can apply for their zero emission cars to be eligible for the grant scheme, removing the need for consumers to apply directly.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Kimmins said: “Creating a carbon free environment is one of my Department's seven Foundations for a Better Future.  Removing car emissions through increasing the number of zero emission vehicles will have the most significant impact on reducing carbon emissions from the transport sector.

“Cost is often cited as the biggest barrier to purchasing an electric vehicle and this grant scheme will significantly reduce the cost of a new EV and make that process more affordable.

“I would encourage any individual or business considering changing their vehicle to think about choosing the electric option and to avail of this scheme.

“All administration will be handled by the dealerships, manufacturers and the British Government to streamline the process and minimise the burden on consumers.”

Notes to editors:

1. More details on the schemes are available on the gov.uk website at   How to apply for vehicle eligibility for the Electric Car Grant