As part of its commitment to reduce carbon emissions from transport, the UK Government aims for nearly all cars and vans to be zero emission by 2050.

The UK Transport Secretary has announced an investment of £290m, to support low-emission vehicles, and go towards making thousands of buses and taxis greener and cleaner.

The investment will help in improving air quality, which is a priority for the government.

"This government is committed to improving air quality and reducing pollution in towns and cities, which is essential for people’s health and the environment."

UK Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “We are absolutely determined to reduce carbon emissions from transport as part of our ongoing commitment to tackle climate change.

“This government is committed to improving air quality and reducing pollution in towns and cities, which is essential for people’s health and the environment.

“We are already making headway through our investment in low-emission vehicles, greener public transport and walking and cycling, as well as grants for innovative advanced biofuels projects.”

The government has also pledged £80m to improve charging infrastructure for electric vehicle owners, and £20m will be invested for an Advanced Renewable Fuel Demonstration Competition.

Additionally, it also plans to invest another £100m towards the development and test connected and driverless vehicle technology.

Go Ultra Low head Poppy Welch said: “The £80m investment in charging infrastructure is vital as growth in the UK electric car market continues to accelerate.

“This is fantastic news for motorists and the continuation of incentives for plug-in vehicles through company tax and salary sacrifice schemes will give thousands more people the option of choosing the very lowest emitting cars and allow more businesses to benefit from adding electric vehicles to their fleets.”