Grant-eligible electric vans named

22 February 2012
Motorists can receive a discount of up to 20 per cent when buying certain electric vans as part of a Government grant

Seven electric vans are now subject to a discount of up to 20% through a Government initiative.

The models that qualify for the grant are the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell, several Renault Kangoo ZE models, the Faam Ecomile, the Faam Jolly 2000, the Mia U, the Ford Transit Connect Electric and Smith Electric's SE2 and SE3 models.

With a discount of up to £8,000 available for each of these electric vehicles, owners will have more spare cash left over to pay for other motoring costs such as breakdown cover or car insurance.

Those tempted to make the switch to electric vehciles might be interested to know that they are also subject to a number of other concessions, including reduced refuelling costs, exemption from the van benefit charge, capital allowance concessions and the ability to enter London's congestion zone without having to pay a surcharge.

The scheme's launch has been backed by a number of organisations, including British Gas, BT and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation charitable trust.

Ellen MacArthur said: "We've been running a Renault electric van to help with the work of my foundation and it's working really well for us. Today's announcement means people will have more choice about the kinds of vans that they can drive and I am pleased to support this initiative."