Diesel van owners who drive along the Guildford stretch of the A3 more than three times a week could be eligible for a £10,000 grant to upgrade to a new electric van. This week, Ash Vale-based Hi Speed Services Ltd became the first to benefit from the scheme, receiving £10,000 off a brand-new electric van to enhance their fleet.
Surrey County Council and Guildford Borough Council have joined forces in a significant £11 million National Highways project aimed at reducing pollution on the A3. Both residents and businesses in the area can apply for the grant to support the transition from diesel to electric vehicles.
Matt Furniss, Surrey’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Infrastructure and Growth, commented: “Cutting carbon emissions and cleaning up our air is a top priority as we aim to be net-zero by 2050. Pollution on this A3 stretch is no joke, and we’re here to protect local health and wellbeing.”
He added, “We’re thrilled to offer financial incentives to ditch diesel vans for electric ones and support small businesses in lowering emissions. Plus, expect more charging points near the A3 and across the county.”
“This grant is just the start. Watch this space for more green initiatives to tackle A3 air quality.”
Ian Dawkins, Managing Director of Hi Speed Services Ltd, said: “We’re a family-run logistics firm with the environment close to our hearts. We want to leave a cleaner planet for our kids and grandkids.”
“We’ve been running electric vehicles for four years and are installing solar panels soon. Adding another fully electric van is a proud step forward.”
Mike Sanders, Group Van Sales Manager at Rossetts Commercials, a dealership involved in the scheme, added: “We’re excited to work with Surrey County Council to offer customers the benefits of the A3 EV grant.”
Diesel van drivers along the A3 in Guildford are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to switch to electric and contribute to cleaner air in the region.
Originally published by UKNIP.
