Car charging network set for expansion
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NEW measures have been introduced to improve provision of electric vehicle charge points after the first publicly available technology launched in Halton last year.
Two sites were unveiled last October which included one at the Select Security Stadium in Widnes and another on Church Street in Runcorn.
As part of the Vehicle Technology And Aviation Bill, large fuel retailers could be made to provide electric charge points and hydrogen refuelling stations under planned new laws.
A Department Of Transport spokesman said that the measures could also make sure data about the location and availability of charging stations is openly available, and make it easier to use the different networks which are available.
The potential changes follow a public consultation on measures to improve charging infrastructure.
Minister Of State For Transport John Hayes said: “If we are to accelerate the use of electric vehicles we must take action now and be ready ● to take more action later.
“I recognise that to encourage more drivers to go electric, the infrastructure needs to become even more widespread than the 11,000 charging points already in place and more straightforward.
“We are determined to do all we can to make electric vehicles work for everyone and these new laws will help make this a reality.” New insurance rules for self-driving cars have also been introduced to cover both the motorist when they are driving as well as the car when it is in automated mode to ensure victims of collisions have quick and easy access to compensation.
Self-driving vehicles will allow the driver to hand full control and responsibility to the vehicle when technologies are turned on.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Automated vehicles have the potential to transform our roads in the future and make them even safer and easier to use, as well as promising new mobility for those who cannot drive.
“But we must ensure the public is protected in the event of an incident and today we are introducing the framework to allow insurance for these new technologies.”