The E-Cosse partnership was announced as the E-Vent conference in Edinburgh, and will look to maximise the opportunities for electric vehicle uptake across the country. WWF Scotland will act as host organisation, tasked with setting up a strategy board to steer the project, working out a ‘roadmap’ for the development process and implementing the plans set out.

Transport Scotland said the project consisted of partnerships with WWF Scotland, Axeon, vehicle manufacturers Allied Vehicles and Nissan, Dundee City Council, IBI Group, Scottish Power, Serco, Siemens, SSE and University of Strathclyde, and that others were invited to join and support the initiative as it progresses.

‘The Scottish Government has ambitious climate change targets but I believe they are entirely achievable. This partnership will help us work with key stakeholders to develop a shared vision and set future priorities to promote the uptake of electric vehicles in Scotland,’ said Brown.

‘It will also allow us to take forward exciting economic opportunities for innovative Scottish businesses and our education and research institutions in the low carbon vehicle and renewable energy sectors.

‘Electric cars reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality and cut noise pollution, in addition the cheaper running costs means a journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow on a single charge will only cost £1.50, and right now they are exempt from road tax. E-cosse will allow us to promote these benefits to a wider audience.

‘Alongside partnership working, our investment and education in EVs and charging points will see them become a far more common and welcome sight on Scotland’s roads in the years to come.’