UK to introduce green number plates for EVs

Green number plates will be introduced for electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK this autumn, with drivers potentially benefiting from cheaper parking and cost-free entry into congestion zones.

The plates will make it easier for cars to be identified as zero-emission vehicles, helping local authorities design and put in place new policies to incentivise people to own and drive them.

They will feature a green 'flash' on the left-hand side, and are part of the government's push for net-zero emissions by 2050.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said today: “A green recovery is key to helping us achieve our net- zero carbon commitments while also promoting economic growth.

“Green number plates could unlock a number of incentives for drivers and increase awareness of cleaner vehicles on our roads, showing people that a greener transport future is within our grasp.“

These plates will only be available for zero-emission vehicles, and come after a consultation with the public, local authorities and industry stakeholders from a range of sectors.

The Department for Transport (DfT) also announced £12m of funding for research into the zero-emission market to develop greener vehicles and help improve vehicle charging technology.

The funding, made available through the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), and delivered through Innovate UK, will see £10m for a new 'Zero-Emission Vehicle Innovation Competition'.

This will invite applicants to bid for project funding to support advancements in both battery electric and hydrogen vehicles, as well as charging infrastructure.

OLEV is also providing £2m to small and medium-sized businesses to support their research into zero-emission vehicles in areas such as battery technology.

“We're supporting small businesses to develop the transport tech of the future through a multi-million pound investment, ensuring that UK businesses remain at the forefront of low-carbon innovation and research, Shapps added.

Image credit: DfT