How does this compare to other countries?
This announcement is a great step in the right direction, however, it's clear that more needs to be done.
A recent study found that half of British drivers say they'd like to help the planet by switching to an electric vehicle. However, 59% think the current average cost needs to fall by at least £15,000 for them to consider switching.
For many people, buying an EV isn't realistic because of the initial price - which is, on average, €35,809. So, rather than just offering financial support for EV infrastructure items - such as charging stations - the UK government also needs to help Brits afford the upfront costs of electric vehicles.
We only need to look at France and Germany to see how much this can benefit the population.
The French government has been among the most generous in Europe in offering incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles. Its €8 billion (£6.7 billion) support plan was put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, in May 2020, and provides drivers with more than €10,000 (£8,388) off the price of a new electric car.
In a bid to transform one of Germany's core industries, the country has earmarked €5.5 billion (£4.6 billion) of funding for electric-car charging infrastructure.
Part of this scheme provides financial help for Germans wanting to buy an EV. Anyone buying an electric vehicle costing less than €40,000 can apply for a grant of up to €9,000 - or up to €6,750 for hybrid cars. Any electric vehicles costing more than €40,000 euros will have up to €7,500 available - and up to €5,625 for hybrid cars.
