A memorandum of understanding between The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and the Department of Energy (DOE), signed earlier this week, will bring the two organisations together for actions including research, infrastructure and promotion of the technology.

Speaking at the signing, EEI President, Tom Kuhn, commented: “Transportation electrification benefits electric utility customers, while also bolstering America’s energy security and sustainability. These are priorities our industry shares with our government partners.”

U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz added: “The U.S. transportation system produces a third of the country’s carbon emissions, making it essential that we improve plug-in electric vehicle technology and increase their numbers on the road.

“Today’s announcement enhances the kinds of private-public partnerships needed to remain at the forefront of advanced vehicle technologies that reduce our emissions and provide safe, reliable transport for the American people.”