The Scottish government has doubled its low carbon transport support fund to £7.8 million.
The finance is issued in interest-free loans aimed at both businesses and consumers to investment in low carbon transport solutions such as ultra-low emissions or electric vehicles.
Scotland’s newly appointed minister for transport and the islands Humza Yousaf said that the doubled investment presented a “fantastic opportunity” for those interested in electric vehicles.
“Making the switch to electric, enables businesses and individuals to make a direct contribution to local air quality, whilst also improving the health and wellbeing of our communities,” he said.
Businesses can apply for up to £100,000 in support which is then repaid over a period of up to six. The Energy Saving Trust is acting as the scheme’s administrator, with all applications sent to it.
The application window will be open until 31 March 2017, or until all available funding has been allocated.
The loan will act separately to the UK government’s plug-in car and van grant scheme, however it remains unclear whether it will remain separate to a business electric vehicle charging station subsidy which is rumoured to be unveiled this summer.
Energy Saving Trust’s head of new services Harry Mayers said: “Although running costs for electric cars are lower than petrol or diesel, the initial purchase cost is generally still a bit higher. These loans will help make it possible for more people to choose a better option for the longer term.”
