The Energy Saving Trust (EST) is to host a series of new events focusing on electric vehicles during the next few months, with the majority of events taking place in Scotland. The aim is to try and highlight the potential benefits that could come from integrating EVs into transport operations. In a recent survey of EV drivers, EST established that the average saving on fuel each year for an electric vehicle is £1,400, and that 85 per cent of drivers who've made the jump to an electric vehicle wouldn't consider switching back to a petrol or diesel. Scottish businesses are apparently considering the integration of EVs into their fleets in order to access the many financial, environmental and Corporate Social Responsibility benefits that can come from doing so. Anyone who purchases an electric or plug-in car can benefit from a grant of 25 per cent off the vehicle's price, up to a maximum value of £5,000 and up to £8,000 for a van. Organisations are also eligible to apply for a grant of up to £10,000 to install a publicly available charging point through the ChargePlace Scotland project, as funded by Transport Scotland. Speakers at the events will try and provide information about what support is available locally, including both funding and financial incentives. Test drives will also be included as a part of the event, and businesses will be made aware of how EVs can help cut down on fleet fuel costs.
