In an attempt to raise the public’s and business awareness of electric and autonomous vehicles, the UK Parliament has founded an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG).

The APPG will be chaired by Tory MP Dame Cheryl Gillan, and will focus on issues such as the charging infrastructure rollout, manufacturing opportunities, emissions reduction, international trade and road safety improvement.

In a statement published on the Renewable Energy Association’s website on Monday (12 February), Dame Cheryl Gillan said: “It is imperative that parliamentarians are aware of the rapid pace of change in the electric and automated vehicle sectors and that post-Brexit the UK is well positioned to benefit from these new technologies. Clearly at hand are new opportunities to expand our manufacturing base, create new exportable expertise, decarbonise our economy, improve safety, and increase productivity.

“We can’t let this major industrial shift pass us by while everybody is focused on EU negotiations. We will aim to keep MPs and Lords informed and help drive the agenda forwards.”

Matthew Trevaskis, Head of Electric Vehicles at the REA, the APPG on electric and autonomous vehicles’ secretariat, said: “This historic industrial shift is creating major new opportunities to decarbonise our transport sector, improve air quality, and reduce consumer bills. We are pleased to work with Dame Cheryl and Members from all parties to help drive this agenda forward in the UK.”