Scottish Government unveils ‘new vision’ for electric vehicle charging

Holyrood promises nobody will be left behind in a draft statement outlining the future of net-zero transport, with an emphasis on private sector funding.

According to plans unveiled yesterday, Wednesday 26th January, Scotland’s revised approach to increasing electric vehicle infrastructure will prioritise the needs of individuals and businesses through a ‘just transition’. 

The policy centres on the need to build more charging points across the country, with the overall aim of doubling the current network size – around 2,100 points – within the next four years. A fund of up to £60million will be established for local authorities to cover the associated costs, and around half of that money will come through investment from the private sector. 

“I’m pleased to outline a new vision for the public electric vehicle charging network. Even though we prioritise funding in active travel and sustainable public transport, cars and vans will still have a role to play and particularly in rural areas. To meet our climate targets, we need these vehicles to be electric, and so we require a seamless network of public electric vehicle chargers, that works for everyone, all of the time,’ said Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport in Scotland. 

“Our draft vision provides a clear picture of what electric vehicle charging networks must deliver for drivers across Scotland, and our priorities for achieving those changes.  We need a just transition, where accessibility, availability and reliability is key and where no one is left behind from the positive shift to a zero emission transport system – including rural and island communities,’ he continued, acknowledging concerns about charging points impeding pedestrian access, which it is hoped will be alleviated by new designs being drawn up by V&A Dundee, resulting in a ‘public network that works for all.’

In related news, grants for electric vehicles in the UK are now targeting less expensive models, with £1,500 available for cars priced below £32,000. 

Image credit: CHUTTERSNAP