A £500 million initiative has been announced that aims to boost the use of electric and hybrid vehicles. These vehicles only represent one per cent of car sales in the UK and will be launched today by Nick Clegg.

The Deputy Prime Minister said he wanted to encourage all drivers to get rid of their petrol and diesel cars by making it cheaper for them to drive an electric car that runs on green energy.

At least £200 million is being set aside to fund grants of 25 per cent, up to a maximum of £5,000, towards the cost of an ultra-low emission car.

More charging points will be installed on motorways and A-roads across the country to counter fears that drivers could be stranded when their batteries run out.

Many towns and cities will be given extra funds to design schemes specific to their town to benefit those drivers who have an electric vehicle, for example free car parking and permission to use the bus lanes. These sorts of ideas are promising as it may encourage people to scrap a diesel or petrol car and opt for the electric type.

In addition, Mr Clegg will commit the Government to spending £100 million on further research and development of low-emission technology over the next five years.

The moves come amid continuing signs that drivers are stubbornly resistant to the appeal of alternative-fuel vehicles. Almost 99 per cent of cars sold last year run on petrol or diesel, with sales of just 2,512 pure electric cars and 3,584 hybrids.

Mr Clegg said the investment would keep the country at the forefront of green technology, create jobs and reduce harmful emissions.

He said: “Owning an electric car is no longer a dream or an inconvenience. Manufacturers are turning to this new technology to help motorists make their everyday journeys green and clean.

“This major investment is there to make driving an electric car affordable, convenient, and free from anxiety about the battery running out.

“But it’s also about creating a culture change in our towns and cities, so that driving a greener vehicle is a no-brainer for most drivers.”

See more at : http://www.itv.com/news/update/2014-04-29/500m-bid-to-get-more-drivers-using-electric-cars/