Drive for green motoring

International experts have gathered at Whitehall to hear government plans aimed at making Britain a leader in green motoring.

Transport secretary, Geoff Hoon, announced steps to deliver a £100m investment that will increase the production of electric and hybrid vehicles. This comes as part of wider government plans to create around a million green jobs by 2030.

Motor manufacturers will have the opportunity to participate in a £10m project to run electric car and ultra low carbon vehicle demonstration projects. In addition, £20m has been invested into UK research to improve technology that could make green cars more practical and affordable.

The government is collaborating with energy companies and the National Grid to examine the impact of the widespread use of electric drive vehicles on the electricity system.

The Department for Transport has also announced a shortlist of 10 companies to bid on providing electric and low carbon vans to some councils and public sector bodies.