Govt announces new plug-in van grant

Date: 18/1/2012

A new plug-in grant has been created for individuals purchasing eco-friendly vans.

Transport Minister Norman Baker and Business Minister Mark Prisk made the announcement yesterday (January 17th), explaining individuals will be able to get 20 per cent off the cost of their purchase - or around £8,000.

Funding for the scheme has been granted until 2015 and it is an extension of the plug-in car grant that provides those buying an eco-friendly car with 25 per cent of their bill.

Mr Baker said: "It is radical initiatives like these which will allow us to create a transport system that both cuts carbon and is an engine for economic growth."

It is hoped the initiative will encourage more people to buy plug-in vehicles, which have lower running costs over their lifetime than standard alternatives.

Vans in most of Greater London will now have to conform to certain environmental standards if they wish to travel around the capital without paying a fine following the extension of the London Low Emission Zone at the beginning of the year.

Posted by Nick Anderson