MCIA 'welcomes' the government’s £650m electric car grant, but with trepidation
The MCIA has welcomed the government’s new £650m electric car grant, but has warned that motorcycles have been ‘left behind’.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced a £650m fund for the new Electric Car Grant, which starts today, 16 July.
Users of the scheme will now be able to secure discounts based on the ‘manufacturing sustainability standards’ of their car. The new plan is the first of its kind since the previous government did away with grants for new electric vehicles three years ago,
The intention behind the new £650 million grant is to cut electric car prices, which will potentially save UK households up to £3750 when they upgrade or switch to electric cars through the Electric Car Grant.
It comes as more than 380,000 zero emission cars were registered in 2024. However, the MCIA (Motorcycle Industry Association) has warned that motorcycles are being overlooked despite ‘welcoming’ the initiative.
The current Plug-in Motorcycle Grant is set to end next April, and with no alternative on the table as of now, the MCIA is concerned there is now a serious policy gap.
It claims “electric motorcycles and scooters are already road-ready, affordable, and ideal for urban and last-mile personal and delivery transport – yet government support is vanishing just as it is expanding for cars.”
The MCIA also wishes to see a direct incentives programme for L-Category vehicles set up, whether that’s for general riding purposes or businesses.
A statement from the MCIA, said: "Today’s announcement sends a strong signal to car manufacturers and buyers – but once again, the Government has failed to recognise the enormous environmental and economic potential of zero emission L-Category vehicles.
“We urgently call for a bespoke incentives programme for L-Category vehicles, both for consumers and businesses. These should include point-of-sale grants, zero emission zones access benefits, parking advantages, and charging support – especially for fleet, logistics, and delivery users where electrified light vehicles can make an immediate impact.
“If this government is serious about net zero, levelling up transport, and tackling congestion, it cannot continue to ignore our sector."
The MCIA’s argument to incorporate more schemes for motorcyclists comes at a time where more and more brands are focusing on the electric two-wheel segment.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
