Plans to install a recharging infrastructure across the UK will support “the electric vehicles revolution”, according to the transport secretary, Philip Hammond.
“Making the Connection: the Plug-In Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy”, published on 30 June, says the majority of recharging will take place at home at night, after the peak in electricity demand, supported by workplace charging for commuters and a “targeted amount” of public infrastructure.
“The ability to re-charge is a key part of the jigsaw in supporting the growth of the electric vehicle market,” said Hammond, in a statement.
“This strategy will help maintain the UK as a global leader in the design, production and use of electric and ultra-low emission cars and at the forefront of efforts to decarbonise motoring,” he added.
The strategy outlines plans to create a registry to help motorists find public charge points and meters to allow charging in the cheapest part of the day.
The document also outlines plans to remove regulatory barriers to the establishment of recharging points and encourage their uptake by local authorities.
Meanwhile, six UK companies have been awarded grants from the Technology Strategy Board for feasibility studies into the recycling and re-use of batteries for low carbon vehicles.
Nearly £500,000 will be shared by the six companies who will carry out seven studies, starting in September 2011.
Each of the studies will look at cost-effective recycling of electric vehicle batteries or their re-use in other commercial areas.