HC Deb 12 July 1979 vol 970 cc240-1W
Mr. Rippon

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what possibilities for experimenting with electric vehicles he is considering.

Mr. David Mitchell

Department of Industry is supporting assessment trials being undertaken by the Greater London council on electric vehicles manufactured by British companies and also research and development and experimental programmes connected with batteries and electrical drive systems. Present commitments over a five year period to December 1982 amount to £2.635 million for vehicle and transport system development and trials, £2.332 million for advanced battery research and development and £92,000 for work on other components such as motors and controllers. Work of this nature by companies to improve electric vehicle performance is continuous and the extent of departmental support regularly reviewed.