§ Dr. WhiteheadTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to expand the scheme of assistance to purchasers of electric-petrol hybrid vehicles to include those private and business motorists leasing vehicles through direct arrangements with the manufacturers. [126919]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Government recognise that hybrid vehicles can provide useful environmental benefits over conventionally powered vehicles and that hybrid technology may provide a bridge between internal combustion engines and fuel cells.
The Government support the take-up of hybrid vehicles with Power Shift purchase grants of £1,000. All leasing companies, including leasing companies associated with manufacturers, are eligible for Power Shift grants, which reduce the cost of the vehicle owned by the leasing company and put the leasing company in a position to provide lower priced vehicle leasing to motorists.