Written question asked by Barry Sheerman (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 17 May 2004. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Monday, 17 May 2004 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what action his Department is taking to promote the use of electric cars.

Answer: Mr. Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what action his Department is taking to promote the use of electric cars. [173824] Mr. Jamieson: The Department promotes the use of electric cars in a number of ways. The PowerShift programme provides grants towards the purchase of electric vehicles and the New Vehicle Technology Fund is currently supporting the demonstration of several electric vehicles. The Government also provides fiscal incentives. Electric vehicles are subject to zero vehicle excise duty, an enhanced capital allowance rate of 100 per cent. in the first year and lower personal benefit in kind tax liability. PowerShift approved electric vehicles are also exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

Secondary information