Scottish Liberal Democrats outline plans to boost support for EVs and assist Net Zero transition

At the forthcoming Scottish Liberal Democrat conference in Dundee, the party will set out plans proposed by climate emergency spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP to boost support for greener cars and the transition to net zero.  

These plans include:  

• Re-instating the interest free loan scheme for the purchase of new electric vehicles after the Scottish Government chose to disband the scheme.  
• Expanding the network of EV charging points, ensuring that information on charge station failures is accurate and that failures are resolved in a reasonable timeframe.  
• Calling on the Scottish Government to publish a comprehensive strategy for reducing car kilometres by 20% by 2030.  

Commenting ahead of the conference, Mr McArthur said:  

“While the Scottish Government might make environmental promises that are world-leading, the action on the ground is often world-lagging.  

“Given the absence of detailed plans or measurable strategies for reducing emissions, it’s clear that the SNP and Greens are putting pedal to metal on separation while letting everything else take a back seat. This is no more apparent than in transport, which is the highest-emitting sector in Scotland.

“We need to call time on the reckless obsession with independence. More than ever, Scotland needs urgent, tangible action that will drive down emissions.  

“Scottish Liberal Democrats believe we need a laser-like focus on the environment. This motion is designed to support the affordable uptake of electric vehicles for people all over Scotland, ensuring that the move to net zero in transport is a just transition. However, it also crucially seeks to enable the transformation of public transport and active travel infrastructure, so that more people can leave their cars at home in the first place. "