The Electric Vehicle Energy Taskforce is now calling on Government and the wider transport industry to promote the benefits of so called ‘smart charging’ to consumers.

And according to a recent poll by the AA, many drivers underestimate the savings that could be made by switching to an electric vehicle. It says the total annual benefit of running an electric vehicle compared to a petrol car – in terms of savings on fuel cost, vehicle excise duty, servicing, parking and congestion charging – could exceed £1000.

Yesterday’s report from the Electric Vehicle Energy Taskforce sets out 21 proposals to support the growth of low emission vehicles.

It suggests that a new consumer facing body could be set up within two years to promote the benefits of smart charging, with Government funding a publicity campaign to help inform users of electric vehicles.

Taskforce chair Philip New said: “Ensuring that the mass roll-out of electric vehicles delivers benefits for drivers and the wider energy system requires action.” But when pressed to comment on whether motorists should be encouraged to recharge their vehicles at home or at public charging stations, he said that the Taskforce’s role is “not to prescribe any particular way of charging”.

Among the 21 proposals is a call for the electric vehicle sector to agree on a common set of standards for charging infrastructure by 2025, to ensure inter-operability.

In addition, operators of all public charge points are urged by next year to make data openly available on the location, type, status, capacity, price and availability of chargers.