Electric cars to be charged at home

05/07/11

Stephanie Gonzalez

Motorists eyeing a switch to an electric car should have to use their own charging point at home, a minister has said.

Transport secretary Philip Hammond said installing charging points across the country is "not the right approach" and most recharging should be done at home.

Mr Hammond was outlining the Government's strategy on infrastructure for plug-in vehicles, which is part of a £400 million initiative to promote ultra-low emission vehicles.

The key areas of the scheme include making electric vehicles a desirable option for drivers and incentivising businesses to create recharging points by easing regulatory requirements.

It is also considering putting the issue within the National Planning Policy Framework, which is due for consultation in August.

Mr Hammond said: "The ability to recharge is a key part of the jigsaw in supporting the growth of the electric vehicle market. It is crucial therefore that we make the process as simple as possible."