HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Electric cars at Number 10 [October 2008]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 27 October 2008.

Downing Street has played host to a range of protoype electric cars as the Government released details of a number of initiatives to encourage greener motoring.

The PM was shown each of the cars and given an explanation of an electric charging point. Earlier, at an International Experts Meeting, Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon set out the next steps of a £100 million commitment to the development of greener vehicles.

Speaking at the convention, Mr Hoon said:

“Electric cars and other low carbon vehicles, like plug-in hybrids, cut fuel costs and reduce harmful emissions. If we can inspire more people to use them, it will help us to make a positive impact on climate change.

“Alongside this, their research and manufacture is an emerging industry with the potential to create new jobs and safeguard existing employment in the UK. Therefore exploring how to ensure they are a practical and affordable everyday option makes sense all round. That is what the cross Government package of measures announced today will do.”