The Government has marked the first-ever World EV Day by revealing to drive electric vehicle take-up further through new research projects and initiatives.

The Government has said its new plans could see parking spaces painted green, charge points at supermarkets and popular tourist sites, and the development of batteries that could charge in six minutes

Taking place globally today, World EV Day is a global movement organised to celebrate sustainable transport and mobility. It aims to highlight the vital role which reliable and fast charging infrastructure, grid reinforcement and the integration of renewable power generation plays in enabling a truly sustainable transport ecosystem.

Alongside announcements from Maxus, Highways England, the AA, Uber, Nissan and the BVRLA, among many others, the Government has said its new plans could see parking spaces painted green, charge points at supermarkets and popular tourist sites, and the development of batteries that could charge in six minutes.

The initiatives have been recommended in a government-commissioned report by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

It’s also announced £12m in funding to propel electric vehicle research projects to support a series of competitions for some of the most promising EV technologies. Working with Innovate UK, the funding is going to the winners of the Catalysing Green Innovation and Niche Vehicle Network competitions, supporting a range of projects designed to open up significant commercial opportunities.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Whether you’re taking a trip with the family or commuting to work, with the wide range of models at competitive prices, it is now more cost-effective and convenient than ever to drive and charge an electric vehicle.

“This, together with our continued support for R&D, will see talented UK-based SMEs flourish, as well as more than 6,000 skilled jobs created up and down the country.

“This is why, on the world’s first-ever day dedicated to celebrating electric vehicles, I’m delighted to announce our unwavering support for a cleaner, greener transport future.”

Commenting on the announcements, Lauren Pamma, electrification propositions lead in Lloyds Banking Group’s Motor Finance and Leasing Division, said: “It’s an exciting time for the electric vehicle market with almost 40,000 battery electric vehicles already registered this year, clearly showing that sustainability remains high on the agenda despite the challenges of coronavirus. It’s positive to hear that the Government continues to look at ways to help drive EV adoption – dedicated green parking spaces being the latest consideration.

“The deadline to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 looms ever closer, so anything that simply and clearly communicates the benefits of electric vehicle adoption – from better parking spaces to the introduction of the emissions-restricted zones – is a welcome shot in the arm.”