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Government pledges £24 million electric car investment
16 September 2010
News today that the Government is to invest £24 million in developing electric vehicles has been welcomed by Friends of the Earth, but the campaigning charity warned that more must be done to cut the transport sector's massive contribution to climate change.
Transport Secretary Phillip Hammond has pledged the cash to fund the development of new engines, technology and infrastructure that will eventually enable more motorists to use electric vehicles.
Mr Hammond said today that he wants the current Government to be 'the greenest ever', and hopes the investment will both reduce the carbon emissions from car travel and provide a timely boost to this growth industry.
Friends of the Earth Transport Campaigner Richard Dyer said:
"Electric cars can help reduce carbon emissions from transport and Government support for this new industry is welcome - however, these vehicles won't do enough on their own to cut transport's contribution to climate change.
"Furthermore, electric cars are only as green as the power they use. Ministers must ensure that more of our electricity comes from renewable sources.
"The Government must rapidly cut carbon emissions from transport if it is to be the greenest Government ever.
"More than half of all car journeys are under five miles - the Government must support councils to introduce local schemes that will encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport for these short journeys.
"Bold policies are urgently needed to tackle these emissions."
ENDS
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2010
