The UK on the 4 September 2013 has launched a strategy to drive forward the ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs) industry. The H2Mobility UK  first report last April will be a timely contribution to furhter the infrastructure  supporting the roll out fuel cell vehicles and infrastructure.

UK Transport Minister Norman Baker said: “As well as huge opportunities for the automotive sector, this will bring life-changing benefits to our towns and cities improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions and it will provide energy security by reducing our reliance on foreign oil imports.”

The strategy will deliver:

  • a growing fleet of, and private markets for, ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs)
  • a network of charging points and other infrastructure making ULEVs an attractive proposition
  • the development of world class skills and facilities for the development of ULEV technologies leading to global export
  • a smarter electricity grid to benefit vehicle owners and the electricity system

The strategy sets out government’s 5 main aims

  1. Supporting the early market for ULEVs:
    • through plug in grants or other consumer incentives – providing certainty for investors and consumers;
    • by raising awareness of the benefits with a government and manufacturer-run campaign
    • by encouraging higher uptake in the public sector
  2. Shaping the necessary infrastructure:
    • by providing investment for the installation of chargepoints in homes, railway stations and public sector car parks and rapid charge points for longer journeys
    • exploring options for a new network of hydrogen refuelling stations to support introduction of fuel cell electric vehicles in the UK
  3. Securing the right regulatory and fiscal measures:
    • by maintaining tax incentives for the purchase of ULEVs until at least 2020
    • clarifying the tax position on ULEVs and providing more information for fleet managers on costs
    • working to secure ambitious but realistic EU emissions targets
  4. Investing in UK automotive capability:
    • by working with the Automotive Council to develop and strengthen the ULEV supply chain and discussing with industry on where to target research and development funding
    • by working with partners to maximise the benefits for the UK from the move to ULEVs
    • by offering £10 million prize to develop a new long-life battery for next generation ULEVs
  5. Preparing the energy sector:
    • by ensuring the forthcoming national household roll-out of smart meters will support plug-in vehicle charging

The EHA is currently mapping the different national H2Mobility initiatives to compare content.

Read the full press release here.