EV trial scheme for taxi and small van drivers

Applications closed 1 March 2023

Please note that applications for the EV trial scheme for taxi and small van drivers closed on Wednesday 1 March 2023.

European Union - European Regional Development Fund. Against a background of blue sky, twelve golden stars form a circle representing the union of the peoples of Europe.

We are currently running a programme to enable Southampton City licensed taxi and private hire drivers and business van drivers* to trial an EV for up to end of May 2023, at 50% of the rental cost. The programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is being run by the council in partnership with charge point operator EB Charging. This scheme is open to the whole of Hampshire. Please check your local authority website for further details and how to apply.

Drivers (including operators and fleet managers) are supported throughout the trial and offered advice and guidance to understand the feasibility of making a switch to a zero-emission vehicle.

A taxi driver plugging in an electric taxi to a public charge point

*To qualify as a van driver for the scheme, the vehicle(s) will need to be registered to a verified company, including sole proprietors.

Drivers undertaking the trial scheme will be eligible for the current incentives as offered by Southampton City Council and national government (as listed below).

Access to two taxi and private hire only rapid charge points (for taxis)
90% discount on any city centre season ticket for electric vehicle users
Owners of fully electric vehicles living in local council areas can currently cross the Itchen Bridge toll free with a SmartCities card
Further incentives listed on Switching to an electric vehicle

To register your interest and to find out more about taking part in the trial, please contact ev.trial@southampton.gov.uk or HantsEVtrials@ebcharging.co.uk.