Conservative Party: Gearing up for the electric car revolution

In a boost for green transport, the coalition government has announced a series of measures to support ultra-low emission cars with mass market appeal.

A consumer incentive scheme will mean that from January 1 2011, motorists buying the first three of the named electric cars will be eligible for a 25% grant, up to a maximum of £5,000.

At the same time, a £20 million regional fund to improve the electric car infrastructure will provide more local charging points.

Announcing the first eligible electric cars, Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said:

"A few years ago, ultra-low emission cars with mass market appeal appeared just a pipe dream. Now they are a reality and we can have all the convenience of the car without all the carbon that normally goes with it.

"Government action to support affordable vehicles and more local charging points means we are on the threshold of an exciting green revolution - 2011 could be remembered as the year the electric car took off.”