The government must not neglect commercial vehicles in its push to upgrade electric charging infrastructure, a leading vehicle manufacturer has said.
At the opening of parliament earlier this week (21 June), the Queen announced legislation that "will be introduced to ensure the United Kingdom remains a world leader in new industries, including electric cars".
Iveco's alternative fuels director Martin Flach said that the move was welcome but that it was important the government did not focus solely on electric cars.
He told MT: “We would broadly welcome a move to install more electric vehicle charging points across the UK, and strongly urge planners to position them appropriately.
"It’s essential they take into account that charging points aren’t just for cars – they need to be able to accommodate even long wheelbase panel vans.”
The MD of rental group LeasePlan UK Matt Dyer echoed Flach's thoughts in regards the new legislation.
He said: “It's promising to hear that the government is set to invest in the UK electric car infrastructure - the foundation is crucial as electric vehicles take an even bigger position in the UK.
"The SMMT has already reported that the percentage of electric vehicles has seen a steep increase with more than 4% of new registrations in 2017 being alternatively fuelled vehicles (AFV) compared with 3% in the whole of 2016.
"So, this news will be especially pleasing for UK businesses, which are beginning to invest in electric vehicles for their fleet choice.”
In her speech the Queen also announced a bill to raise the National Living Wage.
She also referred to trade and customs rules, which are subject to change once the UK has left the EU.
She said: "My government will seek to maintain a deep and special partnership with European allies and to forge new trading relationships across the globe.
"New bills on trade and customs will help to implement an independent trade policy, and support will be given to help British businesses export to markets around the world."
