82% want the government to bring forward the ban on polluting vehicles

82% of drivers believe that the government should bring forward the ban on the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles.

A new consumer group, the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) England, launched in June 2020 to represent the interests of current and prospective electric vehicle (EV) drivers in England. 

The organisation will campaign to reduce air pollution and achieve climate change targets by encouraging uptake of EVs. 

From a survey conducted on over 1,000 individuals – who were predominantly drivers or prospective EV drivers – 65% of respondents said that they support a 2030 phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles. 

The majority of individuals said they do not think that an earlier-phase out date would put unfair pressure on the automotive industry and the majority think that the automotive industry will be able to supply enough electric cars to meet the increased demand.

Participants were also in favour of the introduction of a scrappage scheme, grants and loans for EVs, and faster investment by local authorities in public charging infrastructure. 

Based on these results, EVA England will be encouraging the Government to bring forward the phase-out date for the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans to 2030.

Bridget Phelps, EVA England chair said: ‘We are at a critical juncture in our country’s automotive history.

‘Climate leadership demands that we move more quickly to clean our air. Development of electric cars and vans, their batteries, and renewable energy will create jobs and build a path to a more sustainable economy.

Ade Adepitan MBE, paralympic medallist, journalist and TV presenter, and an honorary member of EVA England said: ‘I thought I would miss combustion cars but after I went electric about four years ago, I’ve never looked back. I’m delighted to join EVA England as an Honorary Member and to do my bit to help smooth the transition to zero-emission transport.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay