Dealers are now beginning to see an acceleration in interest in electric vehicles as carmakers gear up to meet the government’s net zero emissions by 2050.
This month we saw The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) reveal that it has now accredited over 200 dealers on its Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) scheme, which has been reopened. Volvo is one carmaker that wants its network fully accredited by the end of the year.
The scheme was developed in 2019 to encourage retailers to enhance their expertise in the electric vehicle sector and support consumer confidence. EVA certifies the efforts and investments that retailers are making in the EV sector to meet the consumer demand. Following the reopening of the scheme, retailers can now apply to receive their EVA badge of approval.
November also saw electric vehicle drivers from Europe and the UK on ‘The Electric Road to COP26’ visiting the Arnold Clark Innovation Centre in Glasgow before heading to the Cop26 UN Climate Change Conference. It was part of a tour of leading companies that are providing solutions to help combat climate change through their innovative work with electric vehicles and charging.
The Arnold Clark Innovation Centre opened in January, featuring electric and hybrid cars with the aim of educating customers about the benefits of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs), while highlighting the different types of AFVs currently available.
Dealer groups are also partnering with electric vehicle benefits companies to make EV buying easier. Customers purchasing new or used fully electric vehicles from dealerships receive bundles that give access to benefits and discounts covering public charging networks, smart home charging units, EV home energy tariffs, parking and EV accident aftercare services.