Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment his Department has made of the source of consumer concerns relating to ownership and use of electric vehicles; and what steps his Department taking to allay those concerns.

Recent research found that 38% of motorists are now considering an electric car or van for their next vehicle. This figure is up from 25% in 2016.

However we recognise that some consumers still have concerns about electric vehicles. Recent surveys show that price, provision of infrastructure, and understanding of the technology are the most commonly cited barriers.

We are investing nearly £1.5bn‎ between April 2015 and March 2021 in one of the most comprehensive global programmes of support for electric cars, with grants available for plug in cars, vans, lorries, buses, taxis and motorcycles, and schemes to support charge point infrastructure at homes and workplaces and on residential streets.

The Government has also been working with industry for the past four years through the Go Ultra Low campaign to communicate the benefits of electric vehicles. In particular the Go Ultra Low website provides free advice and practical information focused on addressing the concerns of motorists contemplating making the switch to electric.