Electric vehicles (EVs) are one of the important ways in which technology is driving our ability to cut emissions and reach net zero Britain. To achieve this, the government published last month its Transport Decarbonisation Plan, a key element in which is bringing forward to 2030 the date when sale of new petrol and diesel cars will end.

From constituents who contact me, I know there are contrasting views on feasibility of roll-out of EVs. Some who routinely drive long distances, or in predominantly rural areas where range is a big consideration, are sceptical about whether this target is achievable in only 9 years, given the current high cost of EVs, the need for many more charging points, and a unified and simplified payment systems.

I take a more optimistic view. I have driven a hybrid electric/petrol car since 2005 and am convinced the move to electric vehicles is possible, as manufacturers have reacted to government policy to invest substantially in these technologies.

There are now over 100 models of EVs on the market, and by 2025 nearly as many models are expected to be available as conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. Last year alone, a fully electric car was sold every 15 minutes and so far this year account for 15% of all new vehicle sales.

While range continues to be an issue, new models are extending the distance electric cars can travel before a top-up. The cost of acquiring an EV remains high, hence the Government subsidy, which is likely to reduce as economies of scale pick up. But critical for wider adoption is the need to increase re-charging infrastructure.

The charging network nationally is growing. Government funding, alongside private sector investment, has supported installation of approximately 24,000 public chargepoints, including over 2,400 rapid chargepoints - which is already one of the largest networks in Europe. But it needs to increase rapidly, so the first £70 million of a £400 million Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund has been allocated which will add another 3,000 rapid chargepoints.

I am aware of plans to increase charging points in Shropshire through both public and private investment, which is encouraging. I continue to press government to create the conditions for more charging infrastructure to support the 2030 deadline. 

I shall also encourage Shropshire Council and other public bodies with car parking capacity, like Network Rail, and private operators, like fuel stations and supermarkets, to find ways to boost recharging capacity across South Shropshire.