The government has confirmed that the plug-in grant for trucks will be extended for another 12 months.
The grant provides a contribution to the upfront purchase costs by hauliers of zero-emission vehicles.
In a post on social media, future of roads minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Large trucks can claim up to £25,000 and small trucks can receive up to £16,000 – thanks to a government boost of over £6m.
“With freight making up 20% of road transport emissions, decarbonising the sector is crucial not only to drive down our transport emissions, but it also brings some fantastic opportunities to create jobs, attract investment and deliver growth.
“That’s why we’re also investing up to £200m to help roll out hundreds of zero emission lorries and install new infrastructure – which has supported the order of over 274 zero emission lorries, many of which have already hit our roads.”
Logistics UK said the extension of the grant would speed up decarbonisation by helping make the business case for investing in electric HGVs:
“Cost is a significant barrier for businesses when investing in green technology, so extending the plug-in truck grant will encourage HGV fleet decarbonisation by removing some of the risk,” said deputy director Michelle Gardner.
“We have been calling for the grant to be extended for some time and our members will be encouraged that the government is taking industry’s views on board.
“Alongside affordable electric vehicles, the sector needs a comprehensive charging network, and we continue to urge the government to ensure the energy infrastructure is delivered at the pace the sector requires to maintain the nation’s supply chains while meeting net-zero goals.”
