Scottish government to spend more on EVs

The Scottish Government has announced an extra £8.2 million will be spent to support the purchase of low carbon vehicles in the country.

According to Smart Highways, Scotland’s minister for transport and the islands Humza Yousaf has launched the second phase of “Switched on Scotland”, setting out the next steps in delivering the Scottish government’s vision to, “Free Scotland’s towns, cities and communities from the damaging emissions of fossil-fuelled vehicles by 2050.”

Following the scheme, the minister announced a further £8.2 million to support the Low Carbon Transport Loan Fund. These loans are interest-free with a repayment term of up to six years. For the first time, loan funding will also be available for electric motorbikes and scooters and plug-in heavy goods vehicles.

Humza Yousaf said: “I am delighted that Switched on Scotland has reached this critical second phase. Only through effective partnership working can we secure the environmental and transport vision for Scotland that we aim to realise.

“A greener Scotland, with improved air quality, improvements in public health and lower costs for consumers and businesses through the increased use of electric vehicles.

“It has been incredibly encouraging visiting and meeting staff here at J & E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors. They have really benefited from the Low Carbon Transport Fund and I am delighted to announce a further £8.2 million for 2017/18 to help as many businesses and individuals as possible enjoy the many benefits of electric vehicles.”