A new Government-backed app has been launched to provide the tools and practical advice drivers need to go electric.
The free app, called EV8 Switch, was launched on 9 September to mark World EV day – and is backed by £2.7 million of UK Space Agency funding.
The app calculates how much money drivers could save by switching to an electric vehicle compared to their current petrol or diesel vehicle, along with details on the carbon dioxide (CO2) savings and air quality improvements they could achieve.
Drivers can also see which electric vehicles would be the most suitable for them based on their current vehicle and how switching to electric could fit in with their current lifestyle.
Those with the app can also see how close their nearest chargepoints are, and which journeys can be completed without the need to top-up en-route.
The Government has also announced an extension to its £50 million fund for the installation of electric vehicle chargepoints.
The move will see small businesses such as B&Bs gain access to the Workplace Charging Scheme, improving access in rural areas.
It will also see those in leasehold and rented accommodation enjoy the benefits of the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, encouraging people to make the switch in areas where charging provision is currently more limited and potentially more challenging to secure.
Grant Shapps, transport secretary, said: “This World EV Day, I want to not only provide easy access to the tools that people need to feel confident about making the switch, but also to make sure that chargepoints are accessible, affordable and recognisable.
“That’s why we have already committed £1.3 billion to accelerate the rollout of charging infrastructure up and down the country. And as we look forward to COP26 and beyond, our vision is that the UK is at the forefront of the zero emission transport future, creating thousands of green jobs in the process.”
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