The news that Orkney has seen a significant rise in the number of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) since 2017 – and over 200 in the past five years has been welcomed by local MSP Maree Todd, SNP.

Electric vehicles on show at the Orkney International Science Festival

Figures released by the Department of Transport reveal that the number of ultra-low emission and electric vehicles in Orkney has increased by 135% since last year, up from 161 in the third quarter of 2017 to 217 in the same period in 2018. In fact the first recorded figure for ULEVs in Orkney was 10 in the third quarter of 2013, meaning over 200 electric vehicles have appeared on island roads in just five years.

Across Scotland, the number of people driving electric vehicles has almost tripled since 2016 – rising by 130% in two years.

Maree Todd said:

“I welcome the news that the number of ultra-low emission and electric vehicles in Orkney is continuing to rise.

“These figures are testament to people’s commitment to clean air and clean energy in Scotland, and will help to make our towns and cities more accessible – and are an important part of the fight against climate change.

“Ultra-low emission vehicles give us the opportunity to set a path for less pollution and improve the quality of air in the places that we live, work and visit.

“The SNP will continue this progress and maintain Scotland’s reputation as a global leader on tackling air pollution and climate change.”