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UK households who DON'T have driveways face a big shake-up from the Labour Party government. Electric vehicle (EV) drivers will be able to charge their cars at a cheaper rate at home under new plans. The aim is ‘to make it fairer for renters and those without a private driveway’ to be able to afford the switch to EVs. New guidance will now make it easier for these drivers to install chargers by mandating chargepoints in new covered car parks. As a part of the Government’s plans, people across the UK could charge their EVs for just 2p per mile. According to the Department for Transport (DfT), this means an EV driver could drive to Birmingham from London for around £2.50. READ MORE Older drivers face new roadside test in England and could have licence revoked Labour Party government Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “Wherever you park your car, we’re making it fairer, easier, and cheaper to make the switch to electric. “These reforms will improve infrastructure for the EV revolution, increase chargepoints across the country and open up affordable home charging to thousands more households. “It’s good news for drivers and a big boost for the growing British EV industry.” Vicky Read, chief executive of ChargeUK, said: “Any measure which makes it easier for drivers to make the switch to electric is positive. But in order to make the transition to electric vehicles truly fair we need easily available and affordable charging at home, at work and in public, at on-street, en-route and destination locations. The public and private networks working together to support all drivers. “This means creating a supportive investment environment for public charge points, removing barriers to deployment and taking action on costs, including addressing the inequality in standing charges and VAT.” Matt Adams, Head of Transport at the REA, said: “The news today is a massive step towards equal opportunity for renters to charge at home. Renters with new build covered car parks will now, rightfully be able to access a chargepoint. "Making an EV more viable for millions of renters up and down the country. We also welcome the announced consultation on reforms to planning permissions for gullies and note other cross pavement solutions should also benefit.” Vicky Edmonds, Chief Executive Officer of EVA England, said: “This is a hugely welcome move from Government on one of the biggest issues facing drivers today. Our recent survey shows access to affordable home charging is a top priority for EV drivers and those considering making the switch. "Cutting red tape so renters and those without driveways can charge at home is exactly the kind of common-sense reform drivers have been crying out for. It’s a big step towards fairer, cheaper and more accessible charging for everyone.”
