£4.3 million low carbon vehicle initiative for Scotland’s public services

Investment of £3.4 million also announced for green bus scheme to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

First Minister Alex Salmond has announced a £4.3 million initiative to encourage the use of low carbon vehicles by Scotland’s public services.

Local authorities will receive 'bridging' funding this year to cover the difference in cost between purchasing conventionally-powered cars or vans and low carbon alternatives such as electric vehicles, while funding will be available for other public bodies and to develop charging facilities.

Funding for council vehicles will be allocated later this year through Community Planning Partnerships, following an agreement with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities.

Salmond also announced that £3.4 million would be invested in a green bus scheme to help towards Scotland's target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 42 per cent by 2020, which would similarly incentivise operators to buy eco-friendly models.

Salmond said: "The low carbon vehicle scheme will enable local authorities and other public agencies to invest in eco-friendly vans and cars this year and help drive down air-polluting emissions."

"The green bus scheme will also provide a fresh incentive to operators to purchase eco-friendly vehicles for their fleet."

Further information:
The Scottish Government