The Government has launched a £70m pilot scheme to boost the rollout of ultra-rapid electric vehicle charge points in motorway service areas.

Speaking on COP28 Transport Day in Dubai, transport secretary Mark Harper announced that up to 10 trial sites in England will see their electrical network capacity improved as part of the Government's Rapid Charging Fund.

The pilot, which is being delivered by National Highways, will help gather evidence to inform the design of a full fund.

Mr Harper said: ‘This £70m pilot scheme is the starting point and sends a message to consumers and industry that we are investing wisely and rapidly to grow the future of transport in the UK.’

Technology and decarbonisation minister Anthony Browne added: ‘This is an important next step in our journey to net zero and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to help the private sector expand our charging network.’

This article was originally published by LocalGov.co.uk.

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