New Electric Cars Qualify for Government Subsidies
A total of 17 electric vehicle (EV) models have now been approved for the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG), with an additional 13 models added to the list. This expansion marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
Nissan, Renault, and Vauxhall are among the latest brands to receive approval for the ECG. These manufacturers have met the stringent technical and environmental criteria set by the government, which aims to support vehicles that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability throughout their production lifecycle.
The newly approved models fall into the £1,500 grant band, which is applied directly to the On the Road (OTR) prices of the vehicles. This means buyers can enjoy immediate cost savings when purchasing these EVs. The addition of these models brings the total number of eligible EVs under the scheme to 17.
Earlier this week, four Citroen models were also included in the ECG, marking the first batch of vehicles to qualify under the new initiative. The updated list comes just over three weeks after Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced a £650 million electric car grant for new EVs priced at or below £37,000.
The ECG is structured in tiers, with the amount of subsidy per vehicle depending on the level of emissions associated with its production. Vehicles that meet the highest environmental standards are eligible for the full £3,750 discount, while those that fail to meet the green targets still receive a £1,500 reduction. However, models that do not meet the minimum environmental criteria are excluded from the program entirely.
Among the new additions to the list are five Renault models, two Nissan models, and six Vauxhall models. Notably, the all-electric Nissan Micra has been confirmed for the £1,500 discount, with its starting price reduced to £21,495. This model will be available for purchase from 1 September, offering buyers a more affordable entry point into the EV market.
The Nissan Ariya SUV is also included in the £1,500 discount, while the new Nissan Leaf has yet to be officially announced. However, Nissan has indicated that the Leaf is expected to qualify for the higher Band 1 grant of £3,750, although the final pricing details have not been released.
The Nissan Micra is produced in France and shares a platform with the Renault 5, while the Leaf is manufactured at Nissan’s Sunderland plant. This facility is undergoing a major transformation through the EV36Zero project, which aims to establish it as a leading hub for electric vehicle production, renewable energy, and battery development.
James Taylor, managing director of Nissan GB, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, stating that it enhances the value of the Micra and Ariya for customers. He also highlighted plans for future models, including the third-generation British-built Leaf and the Juke, both of which will be produced at the Sunderland plant.
Eligible Models and Pricing
Several Renault models have also been included in the £1,500 discount category. These include the Alpine A290, Megane, Scenic, R4, and R5 EVs. The R5, for example, is available from £21,495 for the entry-level version and £25,495 for the R4.
Renault has confirmed that all new EVs will start from under £37,000, and the ECG discount applies to all orders placed from 16 July. This move is seen as a gesture of goodwill towards customers who purchased eligible models during that period.
Adam Wood, Managing Director of Renault UK, praised the government’s initiative, noting that it aligns with the company’s environmental goals. Edmund King, AA president, also highlighted the appeal of Renault’s discounted models, particularly the Renault 5 and Alpine A290.
Vauxhall’s electric range, including the Corsa Electric, Combo Life Electric, Astra Electric, Mokka Electric, Frontera Electric, and Grandland Electric, has also been approved for the £1,500 discount. Vauxhall previously offered its own £1,500 discount for electric vehicles until 31 August, reflecting the brand’s commitment to making the transition to electric vehicles more accessible.
Future Updates and Consumer Advice
The government has stated that more models are expected to be added to the ECG list in the coming weeks as applications are assessed against the sustainability standards. Car buyers are advised to check the official government website regularly for updates on eligible models.
Manufacturers are also encouraged to highlight any qualifying models on their websites. Simon Williams, head of policy at RAC, welcomed the expansion of the ECG, noting that it is positive to see other manufacturers lowering their prices to remain competitive.
List of Qualified EVs
So far, the following EVs have been approved for the ECG:
- RENAULT
- Renault Alpine A290 = £1,500 discount
- Renault Megane = £1,500 discount
- Renault 4 = £1,500 discount
- Renault 5 = £1,500 discount
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Renault Scenic = £1,500 discount
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NISSAN
- Nissan Micra = £1,500 discount
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Nissan Ariya = £1,500 discount
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VAUXHALL
- Vauxhall Corsa Electric = £1,500 discount
- Vauxhall Combo Life Electric = £1,500 discount
- Vauxhall Astra Electric = £1,500 discount
- Vauxhall Mokka Electric = £1,500 discount
- Vauxhall Frontera Electric = £1,500 discount
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Vauxhall Grandland Electric = £1,500 discount
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CITROEN
- Citroën ë-C3 = £1,500 discount
- Citroën e-C4 = £1,500 discount
- Citroën ë-C5 = £1,500 discount
- Citroën ë-Berlingo = £1,500 discount