RAC urges Chancellor to consider refreshed plug-in car grant

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Following new figures out today from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) on new car registrations, RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis said:

“Following a record-breaking September for new battery electric car registrations, the market grew by an enormous 38% over the last 12 months which means the UK is still on target to have one million zero emission models registered from new by the end of this year.

“With RAC research showing more drivers expect to keep their current vehicles for longer due to the cost-of-living crisis, we believe it’s vital the Government shows its commitment to zero-emission driving and doing its bit to sustain demand by stimulating the less expensive end of new electric car market. A refreshed plug-in car grant would go a long way towards helping more drivers afford to be able to switch to electric cars sooner, so we urge the Chancellor to consider such a measure ahead of next month’s Autumn Statement.

“We hope last month’s slight softening in new battery electric registrations is just a blip and not a harbinger of things to come.”

The RAC is tracking the switch to electric vehicles on this webpage: https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/electric-cars/choosing/road-to-electric/

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The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic British motoring organisation and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted brands, providing complete peace of mind to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric‑ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

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