Govt announces eligible plug-in van grant vehicles

Date: 21/2/2012

Seven vans that will qualify for the plug-in van grant have been announced by the government.

When purchasing one of the ultra low-carbon vehicles, individuals will receive a price reduction of 20 per cent - or around £8,000.

To qualify for the deal, vans must be able to travel 60 mile between each charge, reach speeds of more than 50mph, emit less than 75g/km of CO2 and meet European safety standards.

Among the vehicles included are the Ford Transit Connect Electric, Mercedes-Benx Vito E-CELL and the Mia U.

Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Paul Everitt welcomed the news.

"The savings on the initial purchase price, coupled with the tax advantages and very low running costs, make a plug-in van an attractive proposition," he added.

Head of the Electric Vehicle Programme at Renault UK Andy Heiron recently suggested the plug-in van grant scheme will increase the popularity of such vehicles, meaning there will be a surge in demand.

The Renault Kangoo ZE is one of the seven qualifying vans.

Posted by Nick Anderson