The Renewable Energy Association (REA) hosted its first Electric Vehicle Group meeting last week.

More than 70 individuals from leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, grid management and charging infrastructure companies attended to start the collaborative process of accelerating the sector’s growth.

The group will focus on developing intelligent charge point infrastructure, building links with the energy storage industry and driving other electric transport innovations.

The REA hopes the group will effectively co-ordinate industry voices and help the UK Government plan for the future.

Natasha Robinson, Head of the Office of Low Emission Vehicles, spoke at the inaugural ceremony, which was also attended by senior representatives of Nissan and National Grid.

The REA will add EV expertise to its experience in the renewable energy, energy storage and energy markets.

Matthew Trevaskis, Head of Electric Vehicles at the REA said: “Electric vehicle technology is rapidly improving and their uptake will significantly reduce urban air pollution. As their running costs are low and upfront costs are falling they can already have a lower cost of ownership over their lifetime.

“Critically now the race is on to develop a well thought out, efficient network of rapid charge points and an intelligently controlled system of home and workplace charging.”