RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: "The electric vehicle
revolution is coming and this strategy sets the framework for how
the UK will be ready to benefit from it.
"Despite growing numbers of zero and ultra-low emission vehicles
on our roads, the overall proportion of sales are still low. The
UK government needs to be bold in its steps to encourage as many
drivers to opt for the green option as possible.
"Motorists' concerns about the limited range offered by electric
vehicles needs to be addressed head on - manufacturers have a
role to play here, but so too does the government in ensuring the
necessary rapid charge infrastructure exists.
"The incentives offered to drivers to buy a new, cleaner vehicle
also needs to be looked at. Changes to the car tax system last
year arguably made it less attractive to buy a plug-in hybrid
vehicle - which is odd, given the government's recognition that
these vehicles are a crucial stepping stone to an all-electric
vehicle.
"There is a strong argument for looking at new incentives to help
make the purchase price as comparable to similar sized
conventional equivalents - perhaps by way of a VAT discount or
even an exemption on them.
"New charging technologies also have a big role to play - and it
is pleasing to see the government has seen the role that street
lights can play in offering charging infrastructure."
