Zero-emission cars are to be given unique green number plates

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said, “the decision to print a green “flash” on the left-hand side of number plates on zero-emission cars from the autumn would help show people that a greener transport future is within our grasp. A green recovery is a key to helping us achieve our net-zero carbon commitments while also promoting economic growth”. Drivers of Zero-emission cars are to be given unique green number plates which could make them eligible to by-pass congestion zone charges or secure cheaper parking.

The move, which could allow motorists to tap into special incentives is designed to make switching to electric vehicles more appealing, as the government looks to meet its target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said the green stripe on the plates would make electric vehicles more easily identifiable to local authorities who want to offer schemes such as allowing drivers of such vehicles to use bus lanes, charging them less for parking or cost-free entry into zero-emission zones.

Mr. Shapps’ announcement follows reports last week claiming the Prime Minister was considering plans to give drivers up to £6, 000 to exchange their petrol or diesel car for an electric model.

On top of giving green number plates, the go-ahead the DfT also announced that £12 million was being made available for further zero-emission vehicle research. The funding made through the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (Olev) and delivered through Innovate UK, will see £10 million for a zero-emission vehicle innovation competition, and invite applicants to bid for project funding to support advancements in both an electric battery and hydrogen vehicles, as well as charging infrastructure. A further £2 million will be provided to the UK small and medium businesses to support their research into zero-emission vehicles in areas such as battery technology, which could be used by major vehicle manufacturers in future electric vehicle production according to DfT.