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Following the UK government’s launch of its Electric Car Grant (ECG) scheme on July 15, a list of qualifying vehicles has now been announced. The scheme represents the UK government’s latest effort to reduce the cost of EVs and kickstart economic growth and jobs as part of the Plan for Change.
The two electric vehicles that qualify for the largest discount are the Ford Puma Gen-E and the Ford E-Tourneo Courier. A further 28 models have also been cleared for discount.
Both vehicles from American automaker Ford are eligible for the top grant, saving buyers £3,750 at the point of sale. Less energy-efficient EVs, such as the Peugeot E-308 and Nissan Micra, are eligible for a reduced grant of £1,500.
Ford UK Chair and Managing Director, Lisa Brankin, expressed her praise for the scheme, stating:
“We welcome the government’s decision to accelerate the transition to electric mobility and are proud that Ford’s commitment to sustainability has been recognised with the full EV grant.”
This £650 million government investment attempts to bring the cost of EVs in line with equivalent petrol and diesel models. By reducing the upfront cost, the government hopes to tackle financial barriers faced by buyers making the switch to electric.
Car manufacturers can put forward models for an eligibility assessment. If vehicles meet the sustainability criteria, discounts will automatically be applied at the point of purchase.
Speaking on behalf of the UK government, Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
“We’re putting money back in people’s pockets and making it easier and cheaper for families to make the switch to electric, by delivering discounts of up to £3,750 on EVs.
“Our measures are driving competition in the UK EV market, boosting economic growth and supporting jobs and skills as part of our Plan for Change”.
More models are expected to join the list in the coming weeks as incoming applications are assessed.
The ECG scheme paves the way for future EV legislation and is in line with the government’s promise to suspend the sale of new fully petrol or diesel cars by 2030.
A closer look at the models eligible for full discount
Ford Puma Gen-E
The Ford Puma Gen-E is a sporty, compact, all-electric SUV
This sporty compact SUV retains the Puma silhouette while introducing a fully electric powertrain that delivers up to 376 km (233 miles) of WLTP range.
The Puma Gen-E is equipped with adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go technology and lane-recentring.
Alongside wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and in-built Alexa, the Gen-E comes with five selectable modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Trail.
Ford E-Tourneo Courier
The Ford E-Tourneo Courier offers a larger option, suitable for both city and country living
Ford has labelled the Courier Tourneo as “Super spacious. Super flexible. Super powered.” This family-friendly SUV certainly has size on its side, offering 2,162-litres of luggage space.
Complete with an all-new squircle steering wheel for extra legroom, the Tourneo is a versatile go-between, suitable for both city and country living.
Like the Puma Gen-E, the Tourneo offers 12-inch touchscreen dashboard and emergency break-assist technology.
To hear more about Ford’s new EV strategy join us at our MOVE America event this September.
Ford will be joined by other industry leaders for a day that celebrates the latest innovations and the greatest minds in mobility.
Don’t miss out on being part of the discussion. Buy your tickets here today!
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