DriveElectric are proud to be one of the first 11 organisations to be awarded ‘Go Ultra Low Company’ status under the new government and automotive industry initiative which recognises UK businesses that are embracing electric vehicles (EVs).
Run by campaign group Go Ultra Low, the recently launched initiative aims to help motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the wide range of plug-in vehicles on the market by addressing outdated myths and highlighting benefits, including how they offer competitive practicality for both private and business users.
DriveElectric have been awarded ‘Go Ultra Low Company’ status in recognition of our commitment to boosting the uptake of plug-in cars over the next five years as part of our long-term strategy. Our aim is to give as many people as possible the chance to drive or own an electric vehicle and make a real difference to the environment by reducing CO2 emissions and improving air quality. Not only can EVs promote cleaner motoring, but motorists could save hundreds of pounds per year by switching to ultra low emission vehicles. DriveElectric have already helped more than 125 people successfully make the switch to plug-in cars.
Poppy Welch, Head of Go Ultra Low, said: “We want to encourage every business in the UK to follow the example set by our Go Ultra Low companies and offer their employees the chance to drive or own an electric vehicle. Not only can they promote cleaner motoring, but there are multiple short and long-term financial benefits for companies and their employees to enjoy. Thanks to the variety of models available and their cost-saving potential, this is a realistic and rewarding option for businesses large and small.”
Public and private sector organisations that already use EVs, or offer them to employees as company cars, are eligible for Go Ultra Low Company status, providing there’s a commitment for EVs to make up 5% of their vehicle fleet by 2020.
This qualifying criteria mirrors Government forecasts that EVs will represent 5% of total UK new car registrations by the end of the decade. The Government has earmarked £600m until 2020 to support the plug-in vehicle grant, expand the charging infrastructure, and boost the electric car industry.
Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “The UK is a world leader in the uptake of low emission vehicles and our long-term economic plan is investing £600 million by 2020 to improve air quality, create jobs and achieve our goal of every new car and van in the UK being ultra-low emission by 2040.”
January to April sales of plug-in cars reached a record high in the UK, with over 13,065 new EVs registered in the first four months of 2016, an increase of 30%. Almost two thirds of electric vehicles bought today go to corporate and public sector organisations – once again highlighting the important role companies play in adopting low emission technology.
Mike Potter, Managing Director at DriveElectric, said: “DriveElectric are proud to be leading the UK’s EV revolution. We welcome this initiative as recognition of Go Ultra Low companies will help people see that the switch to electric cars is happening all over the UK and it’s happening right now”
Go Ultra Low exists to help UK organisations and motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the raft of electric vehicles on the market. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing together a consortium of vehicle manufacturers, Government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
More information about the Go Ultra Low campaign can be found at www.goultralow.com
