§ Mr. ViggersTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what monitoring he undertakes of advances in the development of electrically powered passenger road vehicles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeMy Department's Transport and Road Research Laboratory is currently reviewing national and international research and experience in the use of alternative fuels and engines for road vehicles. This review will encompass electric vehicles and battery technology.
In addition to the TRRL review, my Department continues to keep abreast of electric vehicle developments worldwide, and I welcome the continuing efforts by manufacturers to develop advanced batteries and more competitive electric vehicles.