AA hits out at ‘indecisive’ State policy on green cars

The AA has accused the Government of leading motorists down “blind alleys” by “chopping and changing” its policy on alternative fuels and environmentally friendly vehicles.

The AA says car buyers are left confused by the “green mist” created by the Government’s indecision, while motoring expert Quentin Wilson has also criticised the Government for not taking the lead on the issue.

Drivers are being “taken for a ride”, according to AA president Edmund King, who says the decision to allow more vehicles to qualify for exemption from London’s congestion charge is unfair on drivers who have invested in electric cars.

King also claims the current debate over biofuels is “undermining” motorists’ confidence in alternative fuels. The EU this week denounced a House of Commons report that argues biofuels are too expensive, environmentally damaging and make a negative contribution to cutting greenhouse gases.

King adds: “Many motor≠ists are left confused by the green mist generated by changing policies on alternative fuels and green vehicles. There needs to be more joined-up thinking at local, national and EU levels of government.”

Meanwhile, former Top Gear presenter and motoring journalist Wilson says it is “insulting” that drivers of some green vehicles only save £100 on road tax.

He says: “Going green should be an opportunity to actually give people something back for changing their behaviour. Where are the rebates of several thousand pounds to buyers of low-emission cars, which would really create a critical mass of green drivers?