Logistics UK has welcomed the British Department for Transport’s (DfT) announcement of a GBP50m (US$70m) boost for EV charge-points for those in leasehold and rented accommodation, as well as the expansion of the Workplace Charging Scheme.
“This announcement is a positive step forward in the government’s drive to decarbonise light commercial vehicle (LCV) operations,” said Logistics UK Policy manager for Vans and Urban, Denise Beedell.
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“Respondents to a Logistics UK EV survey noted access to overnight charge-points is a key barrier to uptake, so we are pleased these concerns have been considered and additional funding is now available for van operators, who take their vehicles home, provided they have access rights to off-street parking.
“The expansion of the Workplace Charging Scheme, which provides funding for up to 40 charge-points per premises, to small and medium enterprises should be sufficient to cover operators, fleets, staff and visitors for companies of this size.
“However, sufficient power infrastructure must also be in place to meet this increased demand for electricity before any charge-points are installed; Logistics UK is calling for a fair and equitable way of apportioning costs for such energy supply upgrades at commercial premises.
“And, to lead to a greater uptake of EVs among LCV operators, we continue to push for greater electric van model grants, especially for heavier vans over 2.5 tonnes.”
Logistics UK (formerly FTA), represents logistics businesses and more than 7m people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.
