Government introduces stamp of approval for dealerships trained to work with electric cars

Car dealerships with staff skilled in selling and servicing electric vehicles will be formally approved and promoted by a new government-backed scheme. With uncertainty and poor advice having been identified as a key barrier to electric vehicle ownership; the scheme aims to create a trusted brand and increase the confidence of drivers looking to buy an electric vehicle.

The scheme will also encourage car dealers to develop their expertise in servicing electric vehicles, as the country continues to move towards a zero-emission future - backed by the government’s comprehensive £1.5 billion Road to Zero strategy.

Future of Mobility Minister Jesse Norman said: “Record levels of ultra-low emission vehicles on our roads are good news, as we seek to end the sale of new conventional diesel and petrol cars and vans by 2040. “The accreditation recognises businesses with knowledge, capability and commitment to electric vehicles, and will help to encourage more car owners to switch to a greener alternative.” The standard for electric vehicle dealer accreditation has been developed by the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) and the Energy Saving Trust (EST). Successful dealerships will be known as ‘Electric Vehicle Approved’ and recognised for their commitment to training, their quality advice, and their effective service. Following a pilot scheme, in which the electric vehicle skills of 12 dealerships were audited, it is already estimated there will be 130 Electric Vehicle Approved sites across the UK by the end of 2019. 

Image: LEVC